Spotting Signs Your Elderly Relatives in Preston and Ribble areas Need Care This Winter: How Right at Home Preston Can Help

Spotting Signs Your Elderly Relatives in Preston Need Care This Winter: How Right at Home Preston Can Help

As winter approaches, it brings with it a unique set of challenges, especially for our elderly relatives. Cold temperatures, treacherous icy paths, and the general toll of the season can be hazardous for seniors. Leveraging insights from trusted organisations such as Age UK and the NHS, we present a comprehensive guide on what signs to watch out for and how Right at Home Preston can provide invaluable support during these chilly months.

1. Physical Health Concerns: The onset of recurring coughs, persistent colds, or seeming generally frail are alarming signs. Winter is known for exacerbating conditions like flu or pneumonia. While vaccinations can prevent such illnesses, if your relative shows signs of deteriorating health, they might need care at home.

        Anyone over 65 is eligible for a free flu vaccine, just speak to  your loved one’s GP to get book.

        Covid:

• Vaccines help to protect against severe illness, hospitalisations and deaths from Covid.
• People who received an autumn booster vaccine last year were around 53% less likely to go to the hospital with Covid in the two to four weeks after getting vaccinated, compared to those who didn't get a booster.
• Last year's autumn booster programme saw almost 84% of over-80s vaccinated and more than 73% of 65-70-year-olds, protecting the most vulnerable and helping us to live with Covid.
• To book their autumn covid booster you can use this link https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/

2. Troubles with Mobility: Icy pavements can increase the risk of slips or falls. If you notice your elderly relative hesitating to move around, appearing unsteady, or mentioning joint pains, it's a signal they might benefit from some help.
3. Nutritional Challenges: A lack of appetite, or visible weight loss could mean that your loved one is struggling with meal preparation. In winter, proper nutrition is vital to fend off illnesses.
4. Signs of Mental Strain or Isolation: Winter’s shorter days and long nights can intensify feelings of loneliness or depression. Observe if they are more withdrawn or forgetful than usual, as these could be early signs of conditions like dementia or seasonal affective disorder.
5. Struggling with Home Maintenance: If their home is unusually cold or cluttered, it could be a sign that they're finding it tough to manage heating or do daily chores. For support with DIY projects and upkeep you could find a tradesperson from website such as https://www.ratedpeople.com or https://www.checkatrade.com
6. Issues with Medication: Confusion about medications, missed doses, or even doubling up on them is a major concern.
7. Decreased Social Interactions: A sudden decrease in their usual social activities or reluctance to leave home can indicate either physical or mental challenges.
8. Financial Struggles: Missed bills, unopened post, or expressed concerns about money might suggest they're finding it hard to manage their finances. For support with financial struggles you can contact https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/

How Right at Home Preston Can Assist:

Right at Home Preston recognises these challenges and is committed to providing premium care services tailored to individual needs.

• Personal Care: From assistance with daily routines to ensuring medication is taken correctly, the trained caregivers ensure your relative remains healthy and comfortable in their own home.
• Companionship: The emotional well-being of seniors is just as crucial. Whether it's a chat over tea or accompanying them to a social event, caregivers provide the much-needed company many elderly individuals crave, especially during the colder months.
• Home Assistance: Right at Home Preston offers services that range from meal preparation to light housekeeping, ensuring seniors live in a warm, safe, and clean environment.
• Safety Measures: Caregivers are trained to identify potential hazards in the home and can provide guidance on making the surroundings safer, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Flexible Care Plans: Recognising that each individual's needs are different, care plans are personalised to ensure every client receives the specific support they require.

In conclusion, winter in the Preston and Ribble areas can be especially challenging for the elderly. Staying observant and acknowledging the signs that they might need assistance is vital. With the comprehensive services offered by Right at Home Preston, you can have peace of mind knowing your loved ones are in safe, caring hands. Give our friendly team a call on 01772 619106 and see how much we can help.