The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it's also important to be mindful of safety, especially for our seniors. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and happy holiday for everyone:
Fire Safety:
Choose flame-resistant or non-combustible decorations for trees.
Consider battery-operated candles for added peace of mind and safety.
Ensure your senior relative is operating safely in the kitchen, by assisting or observing them.
Medication Management:
Keep medications organised and clearly labelled.
Check expiry dates.
Review medications with doctors or pharmacists to ensure adequate doses over the holiday break.
If you or your senior loved one are travelling, double check they have enough necessary medication and have clear dosage instructions if necessary.
Preventing Falls:
Remove clutter and tripping hazards from floors and stairs prior to elderly relatives visiting you.
Ensure proper lighting in all areas of the home, especially hallways and stairways.
Use non-slip mats or secure rugs to the floor.
Have spare assistive devices like canes or walkers as needed, or someone to greet them at the door if there are stairs.
Mental Health
Make time for in-person visits and check-ins during the holidays.
Use video calls to help seniors connect with those they can't visit in person.
Involve seniors in holiday traditions where possible, whether it's cooking, decorating, or simply sharing stories.
Ensure their environment is comfortable, especially during social gatherings.
Be willing to help with tasks like cooking, cleaning after visits, posting cards, or shopping for gifts.
Reminisce about past holidays and family traditions.
Take photos!
Additional Tips:
If you are going to be away for the holidays, prepare a list of emergency contacts and ensure the contacts are aware.
Ensure your relative’s air conditioning is working properly and they know how to operate it.
If they do not have air conditioning, ensure they have fans they can operate easily or invite them to come to your house on particularly hot days, if you have air conditioning.
Ensure any outdoor blinds are closed prior to hot days.
Ensure seniors are staying hydrated through any heatwaves. Visit them prior to hot days to ensure they have adequate water supplies, some refrigerated water and ice blocks.
Inform them of any news regarding bushfires in their area and prepare a bag of supplies for evacuation if they live in a high-risk area. The Vic Emergency smartphone app can notify you or your loved ones of risks in their area.
Our Commitment to Safety
At Luxe Care, we prioritise the safety and wellbeing of our clients. Our dedicated carers can identify and address potential safety hazards in the home. We work closely with clients and their families to create safe and comfortable living environments.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about safety or home care services over the holidays, please don't hesitate to contact us on 1300 848 365.
Let's make this holiday season a safe and joyous one for everyone!
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