One grows to appreciate that moving a senior to an Assisted Living community offers benefits to their physical and mental well-being during the challenging winter months. As we move closer to the holidays, it’s a good time for families to discuss ways to make sure a parent aging alone in a home will feel safe and secure as the colder weather and isolation impact those with mobility issues.
Year-round, being in an Assisted Living community keeps seniors safe. This is true during the heat of summer as well as days when roads are icy.
Jeff Clay, Vice President of Business Development for Regency Retirement Village, recalled how staff responded a few years ago after devastating tornadoes in Huntsville left them with the responsibility of working for several days until electricity could be restored. He takes pride in knowing the residents did not miss a single meal despite the hardships faced by the larger community in the wake of the storms.
“I can say proudly that our teams are completely committed to our residents and prepare for inclement weather,” Clay said. “The leaders and associates will come to our communities with sleeping bags and extra clothing to stay for the duration of a storm or winter weather so we will have ample staffing to care for our residents.”
Assisted Living communities are especially helpful in giving families peace of mind when a senior is forgetful or has problems getting around. At Regency, we offer transportation so they do not have to drive to church, a restaurant or to go shopping.
For adult caregivers who take care of an aging parent from their home instead of a community such as Regency, now is a great time to plan winterizing the house and what needs to be done if roads become impassible and power lines fall. It’s important, if the senior cannot be reached, to have several days of food and water, as well as any medications they need. It’s critical to identify a neighbor who can be trusted to check on the senior if the family caregiver is unable to reach them. A sweep of the home can quickly identify potential hazards such as a lack of proper ventilation when using heating sources or things that can be tripped over to cause a fall.
Caregivers should also remember that even with a milder than normal winter, the season can lead to depression as there is less daylight and seniors may feel lonely, especially during the holidays. The social interaction is another great benefit of joining an Assisted Living community. With planned activities and compassionate caregivers always near, seniors enjoy dignity and privacy while also being safe and having opportunities for mental stimulation.
Regency is now making it more affordable for seniors to become a part of our community. When you call Regency Retirement Village of Huntsville at (256) 852-0033, mention coupon code (1600-OFF). Learn more about us at https://www.regencyhuntsville.com