Winterizing Your Senior's Home

For elderly individuals who are aging in place, caring for the home may be a bit of a challenge. While they might be able to keep up with daily chores and minor repairs, winterizing their property may prove a bit difficult. For this reason, senior care professionals encourage family members to step up and help out. Below are some of the ways in which eldercare providers note that seniors need help in preparing their homes for harsh winter weather.

Cleaning out gutters

The gutters around the home keep water moving away from the structure, and as such protect the property. But this is only true if they are kept in good repair. Clogged gutters can cause massive amounts of damage to a structure, so it's important that they are cleaned at least twice per year. Removing all leaves, twigs, and other debris after the fall season is the best way to prepare the gutters to take on the winter weather. 

Fix air and water leaks

From space that has grown in door jambs due to the settling of the home and warping of the door frame to leaks in faucets, these problems need to be taken care of in order to create the most comfortable living space possible. Go through the house and check for any air coming in through door and window frames. Additionally, check and fix any leaking faucets or dripping pipes. 

Update insulation

This project is on a bit of a larger scale, but it is certainly important when winterizing a home. Check the attic insulation in your senior's house to ensure that it is up to code and in good repair. If necessary, replace the insulation with an energy-efficient version that will both keep the home more comfortable and lower energy bills. 

Have the chimney inspected

Cold weather calls for cozy fires, but this can prove dangerous if your senior's chimney isn't clean. Have a chimney sweep come inspect the chimney and determine if any upkeep needs to be performed or if it is good to go another year before a cleaning. 

Winterizing your senior's home is an extremely important way in which you can show your love and appreciation for your elderly loved one.