By Brenda Deschner, Certified Concierge Care Advisor
Senior Winter Storm Preparedness: Ensuring Safety Before It’s Too Late
As winter storms roll in, we’re all tuned into weather reports reminding us to stock up on food, water, and emergency supplies, avoid using generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risks, clear snow and ice from driveways, and stay off the roads. However, amidst all these warnings, there’s one crucial concern often overlooked: the safety and well-being of our seniors.
As someone who works closely with the senior population, I’ve become acutely aware of how many families wait until the last minute to search for a safer care environment for their elderly loved ones—whether that’s an Adult Family Home or another type of Senior Living Community. Too often, families don’t act until a crisis occurs, forcing them to make hasty decisions during an emergency.
TV Dinners Won’t Cut It: Seniors Need More Than Basic Supplies
I frequently hear families say things like, “We stocked her up with TV dinners to get through the storm,” or “There’s plenty of water; she’ll be fine.” While it’s reassuring to know that some basic provisions are being arranged, seniors need more than just food and water to thrive, especially during the harsh winter months.
- Balanced nutrition is essential for seniors to stay healthy, especially during winter when their immune systems are already vulnerable.
- Exercise and movement are necessary to prevent muscle deterioration, but how can seniors stay active if they’re stuck inside without support?
- Social interaction plays a vital role in mental well-being. Without it, loneliness and isolation can set in, leading to depression and cognitive decline.
Icy Roads and Overwhelmed Hospitals: Why Waiting is Risky
The roads during winter storms become treacherous, with icy conditions and limited snowplow access making travel nearly impossible. Emergency services often struggle to reach isolated neighborhoods, meaning you or an ambulance might not be able to get to your loved one in time during an emergency.
Additionally, local hospitals and emergency rooms are often overwhelmed during severe weather, leaving them no choice but to discharge patients who could benefit from continued supervision. Seniors who would thrive in assisted living communities or Adult Family Homes are often sent home, where they may not receive the care they need to stay healthy and safe.
How to Prepare and Ensure Senior Safety This Winter
- Check in Regularly
- Call your loved ones frequently to see how they’re doing and ensure they have what they need.
- If it’s not safe for you to visit, ask a neighbor to check on them.
- Plan Ahead for Long-Term Care
Waiting for a crisis to make a care decision is risky. Use the winter months as an opportunity to evaluate whether your loved one would be safer and happier in an Assisted Living Community or Adult Family Home. - Consider Care Solutions Before It’s Too Late
Winter storms highlight the importance of planning ahead. Instead of relying on temporary solutions, such as frozen meals or quick check-ins, explore care options that provide 24/7 support, nutrition, socialization, and supervision. Moving your loved one into a care community can offer peace of mind for the entire family, knowing they are safe, supported, and never isolated—no matter what the weather brings.
Don’t Wait for a Crisis to Act
Unfortunately, 95% of the families we assist come to us during a crisis. Whether your situation is an emergency or you’re just beginning to consider care options, we’re here to help every step of the way. Our compassionate and professional advisors will work with you to find the best long-term care solution tailored to your loved one’s needs.
Don’t wait for a storm—or a crisis—to dictate your next steps. Reach out to Concierge Care Advisors today to discuss your options. Call us at 1-855-444-7364 or visit our Contact Us page to connect with a Senior Living Advisor. Together, we’ll help you find the right care option so you can rest easy, knowing your loved one is safe and well-cared for.
