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How Seniors Can Prepare For Spring

How Seniors Can Prepare For Spring

Apr. 19th, 2022

As the sun comes out and the flowers begin to bloom around the country, many seniors are ready to enjoy spring with their family and friends.

Here are some ways that seniors can begin to prepare for the warmer weather as the snow melts and they begin to welcome the changing of the seasons.

Manage Allergies and Allergy Medications

Many people in the United States are allergic to pollen, and it is estimated by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention that approximately 7.7% of the country has hay fever.1

As the flowers bloom and grass begins to grow, it’s important for seniors to check their allergy medications. They should make sure that their medications aren’t expired and check with their doctor about updating their prescription if needed.

Additionally, it’s important for seniors to learn how to manage their allergies in order to enjoy the sunny weather. A few tips to help seniors control their allergies this season include:2

  • Keep windows and doors closed to prevent allergens from getting into the home
  • Frequently wash bedding and linen to prevent dust mites
  • Shower and change clothes after being outside
  • Clean and dust rooms to remove any pollen and other allergens that may accumulate
  • Wear a mask to prevent allergens from reaching the nose and mouth

Spring Cleaning

Did you know that the average American has 300,000 items in their home?3 Many seniors will accumulate things over the years such as items they purchased, gifts they’ve received, or valuables they’ve collected in their free time.

However, it isn’t practical for seniors to keep excess items in their homes. Clutter can create hazards that can make it harder for seniors to move around. Additionally, excess clutter can create difficulty when it comes to finding an item when it is needed.

As spring comes around, it’s a great idea to help your loved one start spring cleaning. Some ways to help seniors spring clean include:

  • Sort items into piles such as keep, donate, and re-organize
  • Declutter one area of a room at a time
  • Get rid of items that are in junk drawers and currently not needed
  • Get rid of decorations that are not in use
  • Go through the closet and find any clothes that do not fit or are worn out
  • Throw out any expired food and medications

Have Springtime Clothes

As the weather becomes warmer, the spring season calls for sundresses and sun hats. It’s important for seniors to make sure that their spring clothes fit and are still in good condition for the warmer weather.

Any worn out items should be replaced with new items that meet a senior’s needs. It’s also pertinent to ensure that clothes aren’t restrictive to allow seniors the ability to move around the house.

The sun will begin to come out more often, and it’s vital for seniors to protect their skin from sun exposure. Some clothing items that will help protect the skin include:

  • Long, light fitted shirts and pants
  • Sun hats
  • Baseball hats
  • Sunglasses
  • Shoes that cover the feet

Good quality clothing that protects seniors from the sun is an important part of spring preparation to help avoid sunburns and other skin problems caused by UVA and UVB rays.

Prepare the Lawn

It’s a good idea to prepare the lawn during the spring season to keep the flowers, bushes, and other plants growing in the yard healthy. Preparing the lawn can also help prevent injuries and keep seniors safe during the spring.

In addition, seniors who enjoy outdoor activities such as gardening will need to be able to move around outside without worrying about falling or other hazards.

Some ways to prepare the lawn for the spring season include:

  • Make sure all gardening tools are in working condition to prevent injuries
  • Check that all sidewalks, stepping stones, and other pathways are level with the ground
  • Remove weeds, fallen branches, excess leaves, and overgrown tree branches
  • Clear any seasonal decorations that might be left over from the winter
  • Add compost to mulch beds to help keep them fresh
  • Clean and prepare any backyard or patio furniture for the outdoors
  • Make sure all fences and gates are in good shape

Keep the House Up-To-Date

As spring rolls around, it’s important for seniors to make sure their home is up-to-date to prevent any potential problems from wear-and-tear on the home. Some ways seniors should prepare their home include:

  • Clean out the gutters of all leaves and debris
  • Check vents to ensure they are working and free from damage
  • Check and test fire alarms and smoke detectors
  • Change filters in HVAC systems and water purification systems
  • Inspect the roof for any missing tiles or leaks

Stock Up in Case of a Spring Storm

Sometimes, the warm weather will bring storms and power outages. It’s vital for seniors to be prepared this spring in case there is a chance they are unable to leave their homes for a period of time.

Some groceries that are essential for seniors to stock up on include:

  • Bottled water
  • Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables
  • Ramen, pasta, and other easy to make items
  • Frozen dinners
  • Canned or boxed dried milk
  • Cereal or oatmeal
  • Crackers
  • Granola bars

Other items that seniors should have in their homes include:

  • Flashlights
  • Batteries for key devices
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency contact list
  • Landline phone
  • Battery operated radio or TV

Saber Healthcare Welcomes Spring!

Here at Saber Healthcare, we welcome the new season and everything it will bring. We encourage seniors across the country to enjoy the warm weather while staying safe.

Saber Healthcare is an organization that provides services to more than 115 buildings across the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, Indiana, Delaware, and Florida. To learn more about our company and the services we provide, click here.

Saber Healthcare is an organization dedicated to providing consultant services to long term care providers. This article is for informational purposes and is not meant to be seen as professional advice. Please consult with a medical expert before relying on the information provided.

Sources

  1. “Allergies and Hay Fever.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 13 December 2021. Accessed 15 April 2022. Link: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/allergies.htm
  2. “How to Manage Summer Allergies.” Saber Healthcare Group. 24 July 2021. Accessed 15 April 2022. Link: https://www.saberhealth.com/news/blog/manage-summer-allergies
  3. “8 Decluttering Tips for Seniors.” Saber Healthcare Group. 17 August 2021. Accessed 15 April 2022. Link: https://www.saberhealth.com/news/blog/decluttering-tips-for-seniors