The brilliant, warm hues of autumn are inviting—yet they signal the beginnings of cooler weather and a set of hazards unique to this time of year. Caregivers must practice autumn safety tips to protect seniors and ensure these months are filled with enjoyment.

Autumn weather varies from coast to coast in the US. In Florida, residents still experience warm days, with daily temperatures ranging from 70 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit. Along with the temperate days, the autumn months mark the end of the rainy season.

Tip 1: Hire help for yard work

Even as the weather cools, seniors must still practice safety tips during the autumn months. Rather than attempt to do yard work at home, older adults remain safe by hiring help or finding a volunteer to clean the gutters and rake the leaves in the yard.

Landscaping and raking services can keep the walkways free of fallen leaves—a major slipping hazard for older adults. Clean up leaves that cover the yard so that seniors do not succumb to potential hazards, such as ditches under the leaves.  According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the number one reason for injuries among older adults.

Tip 2: Install extra lighting

Daylight lessens during the autumn months, making it necessary for caregivers to add more lighting to living spaces. A well-lit home can prevent seniors from fumbling in the dark and tripping. Plug in nightlights in the hallways, place a lamp next to the bed, and store flashlights in nearby drawers.

Tip 3: Prepare for flu season

The best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu shot. After getting the flu vaccine, it takes two weeks for antibodies to develop and protect the individual from the flu. Seniors who aim to avoid the flu and its complications should be vaccinated in early fall.

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases reports that seniors are in greater danger of serious flu and flu-related complications including pneumonia and hospitalization.  In addition, for those 65 and older, the flu raises the possibility of heart attack by 3-5 times and stroke by 2-3 times in the first 2 weeks of infection.

Flu prevention practices are equally important. Seniors are advised to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer. Keep hands away from the nose, eyes, and mouth to prevent the spread of germs. If infection occurs, take the prescribed antiviral medication.

Tip 4: Treat seasonal depression

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is prevalent in autumn. A type of depression, SAD can manifest when the days are darker and cooler. Affected seniors can combat the symptoms of irritability and fatigue by exercising and spending time outside to soak up vitamin D.

Tip 5: Dress in layers

Even though it does not get very cold in Florida often, there are some days when we get a cold spell. Seniors lose body heat rapidly, so dressing in warm clothing is a priority. Even a chilly wind can cause a drop in body temperature, leaving aging adults vulnerable to liver damage or kidney failure.

Caregivers should dress elderly care recipients in layers to maximize safety when outdoors. Dress the senior in layers of sweaters, topping off the outfit with a hat, and maybe even a scarf.

Tip 6: Reduce fall risks

Fall-related injuries send millions of seniors to the emergency room each year. Caregivers can reduce the risk of falls by placing non-skid mats on wooden decks and walkways that tend to be slick. Install handrails on walkways. Provide the senior with an assistive device, like a walker or a cane.

Tip 7: Provide a medical alert system

A medical alert system is a life-saving measure for a senior who has suffered an accident. First responders are alerted immediately when a senior wearing a fall detection sensor experiences a fall. Medical alert systems can also detect gas leaks and smoke before a threat escalates.

Along with the arrival of autumn is a long to-do list of safety practices that protect the well-being of seniors. Families will further keep their elderly loved ones physically and emotionally healthy when they utilize the home care services from Assisting Hands Home Care.

As a leader in elderly care, our home care agency meets the daily, non-medical needs of seniors during any season. Our professional caregivers support care recipients with all the activities of daily living, from personal care tasks to transportation and medication reminders.

Rather than rely solely on grocery delivery services or voluntary assistance from friends, our professional caregivers ensure the home is stocked with fresh food. In addition, our caregivers prepare nutritious meals so that seniors eat well and hydrate. We’re also excellent companions, deterring loneliness and social isolation.

Assisting Hands Home Care services are flexible and meet the various scheduling needs of families. We are available for short-term respite care, overnight care, and around-the-clock care. Dementia care, hospice home care, and after surgery care can also be arranged to support seniors.

Protect the well-being of your senior loved one living in West Palm Beach, Florida, by choosing Assisting Hands Home Care for all non-medical care needs. Our caregivers are knowledgeable in all aspects of elder care and keep seniors safe all year long. Call us today at (561) 566-5989 to schedule an in-home consultation.