5 Autumn Safety Tips for Seniors
Autumn is a lovely time of year in Bartlesville, OK. However, as the temperatures drop and the days become shorter, the fall poses some unique safety challenges to older adults. Fallen leaves, fog, reduced visibility, and the flu are just some of the risks seniors face.
But with the right preparation, you can help the senior in your life stay safe this season and all year long with some practical safety tips.
5 Fall Safety Tips for Seniors
For many of us, fall is the time of year to start hunkering down and enjoying a bit more cozy moments at home. But before you do, consider whether you or a senior loved one could use a fall refresh to button up a few safety measures. Here are five practical safety tips seniors can use to stay safe and comfortable during the autumn months.
1. Get Vaccinated
The flu season just started. With adults aged 65 and older at higher risk of developing severe flu complications, it’s crucial for seniors to get vaccinated. Make a flu vaccine appointment with your healthcare provider or local pharmacy. Many locations provide them for free.
2. Keep Pathways Clear
Soggy fallen leaves can be a slipping hazard for older adults–or anyone. In addition to watching where they walk, seniors should keep their walkways, driveways, and front porches clear of dead leaves and other debris. Ask a loved one or neighbor to help if you can't rake leaves yourself. Seniors with external stairs might also want to consider installing handrails on both sides for extra protection. Non-slip mats outside and inside of doorways keep wet shoes from leaving slippery water spills on the floor.
3. Get Your Car Fall-Ready
If you’re a licensed driver, a new season is an excellent opportunity to get your vehicle inspected. Book an appointment with your local mechanic to have them change the oil, check the headlights, and correct the air pressure in your tires. Having your mechanic check your car’s heater is also a good idea. Consider getting all-season tires. These give your vehicle optimal levels of traction, helping you better navigate roadways covered in wet leaves.
4. Have Your Furnace or HVAC System Checked
It’s essential to have your furnace or heating system checked by a certified professional. This ensures you’ll stay cozy even as outside temperatures drop. A properly working heating system can also help lower energy consumption, saving you more money on utility bills.
5. Light The Way
Now that the days are shorter, seniors should take extra precautions to keep their homes well-lit. Darkness can hinder visibility and cause slips, trips, and falls. Keep entryways, stairwells, and interior and exterior pathways bright. Seniors can also place a lamp on their nightstand that’s within easy reach and keep spare flashlights in their car and accessible drawers.
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, Keeps Seniors Safe
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, strives to keep seniors across Bartlesville, Dewey, Nowata, and Ramona safe. That includes regularly evaluating our clients for falls or safety risks within their homes and environments. Our certified in-home caregivers can help with non-medical tasks like light housekeeping, reliable transportation, meal planning, and more.
Contact us today at (918) 333-7400 for more information.