In the San Antonio region, we can usually bank on mild winters with temperatures averaging 52 degrees in January, our coldest month. Surprisingly, we’ve witnessed several cold spells in the Lone Star state over the past few years. News of arctic blasts and Pacific cold fronts have made headlines and have caught plenty of us by surprise. As we’re in the business of caring for people, we’ve put together some ways to ensure the well-being of our older population should temperatures take a deep dive. Read on for ways to keep your loved ones comfortable and safe during frigid weather patterns.

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Prepare to Stay Warm:

• Get a jump on the surprise arrival of a cold snap! Ensure that your loved one’s home is adequately heated, especially in living rooms and bedrooms. Is their system in need of a tune-up or maintenance check? Seek the help of certified HVAC professionals. Assistance programs from electric and gas companies can be beneficial if affordability is a concern.
• Make sure warm clothing is easily accessible to help seniors maintain a healthy body temperature. Are there enough blankets in the house? 

Stock the Shelves:

• Cold spells may keep older adults at home more than usual with limited access to grocery stores. Be mindful of their food needs by stocking a well-balanced pantry and freezer. Remember to check labels for sodium content and preservatives in canned goods and store-bought meals. Homemade can be the best option but stores today are well stocked with healthy choices! And don’t forget about grocery delivery services. If you can’t get out, take advantage of online ordering and schedule delivery to your loved one.
• Equally important are medications. Stay on top of prescription refills and over-the-counter medications. If mail order prescriptions are an option, it may be a good idea to switch to this method for refills.

5 Steps to Manage Medications

Be Cautious Outdoors:

• Clear icy sidewalks and paths outside the home, applying grit to prevent slippery surfaces. Keep salt on hand and spread it before anticipated poor weather. Choose sturdy footwear suitable for winter conditions. Install handrails for steps and other outdoor areas to enhance safety year-round.

Promote Physical Movement:

• Encourage regular physical activity to prevent prolonged periods of inactivity. With appropriate outerwear, simple activities like walking for 10-15 minutes each day can boost energy, strength, and mood. For indoor options, consider activities like chair yoga to promote flexibility and prevent stiffness. Explore a variety of range-of-motion exercises suitable for all abilities.

Stay in Touch:

•  If a Texas cold snap keeps your loved one at home more than usual, be intentional about visits and ways to prevent feelings of isolation. Recognize the importance of social interactions in maintaining mental and emotional well-being; spend quality time with senior parents, relatives, and friends through in-person visits, phone calls, or online video chats. 

By following these steps, you can help your elderly loved ones not miss a beat when cold temperatures disrupt our normal, mild Boerne weather.

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When You Can’t Be There, We Can

Our compassionate caregivers are providing exceptional one-on-one care throughout Boerne, the Hill Country, and North San Antonio. Let’s talk about how we can provide consistency and continuity in home care for you or an older adult you care for. Call today for the best home care in Boerne, The Hill Country and the North San Antonio area: (830) 225-2273. 

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