6 Ways to Prepare a Senior’s Home for the Summer

Although summer is an exciting time for many people, it can also pose a danger. The extreme heat can be dangerous for everyone, especially seniors who live at home alone. 

As older adults start to age, they can become unaware that they need to fix their AC or drink more water. If seniors are left in high temperatures for long periods, they run the risk of suffering from heat exhaustion or a stroke. 

Home care Omaha NE is here to share these tips on how to prepare a senior’s home for summer. 

Change the air filters

The first thing that should be on your to-do list to prepare a senior’s home is to check if their AC is working. Before it starts getting hot, go over to a senior’s home and change their air filters. Replacing air filters before starting an AC can help prevent the dirt and debris from damaging the unit. 

Check the HVAC

Once you have replaced the air filters, start the AC. Make sure that the air vents are open, and that cold air is being blown out. If you’ve noticed that no cold air is being blown, call an HVAC professional. 

These professionals can fix the system before your senior is left in the heat. If your senior rents their home, call the landlord. If they do not stop by to fix it, report it to proper authorities like the Omaha Housing Authority or a social worker. 

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

You never know when a fire or carbon monoxide accident can occur. It is best to be prepared for the unexpected. Often seniors living at home forget to check their detectors to see if they need new batteries or should be replaced entirely. Or these detectors are placed out of their reach. Testing your senior loved one’s smoke and carbon monoxide can help save their life. 

Clean air vents 

When the AC starts, it blows cold air through the vents. If the vents have dust, debris and pollen collected in the vents, it can be circulated through the vents. The air with these allergens can affect your senior loved one by causing allergies, sore throats and coughing. 

Also, all the allergens and dirt that has been trapped in the vents can damage your AC. These particles can make their way back into the system and damage the motor. The last thing you want for a senior is to have to purchase a new AC. 

Roof inspection

Summers can be stormy seasons, especially if you live in the Midwest. These storms typically bring strong winds and rain that can leave damage on a roof if it has not received the correct maintenance. If the roof has missing or damaged shingles, rainwater can make its way inside and cause damage. This can lead to mold and mildew forming and cause a senior to get an illness. 

Hire home care Omaha NE

As your parents start to age, they could lose the ability to do simple household chores. A caregiver gives seniors the extra assistance they need to maintain their homes. Plus, caregivers can reassure you that your senior loved one is safe during the high temperatures. They will make sure they are staying cool and drinking enough water. 

Choose the best home care Omaha NE to help your senior loved one. Contact Akkase Home Health Care to get started.