Fall and Injury Prevention Tips for Seniors During Rainy Weather

With frequent wet weather, slipping and falling becomes a greater safety concern. To prevent any injuries, caregivers can:

• Dress their care receiver in traction-enhancing footwear with non-slip soles. Avoid high heels or uneven footwear.
• Dry the wheels or tips of their care receiver’s walking aids before entering the home.
• If their care receiver uses a cane, replace the rubber tip before it is worn smooth.
• Keep the home entryway clear of clutter to prevent tripping hazards.
• Place a small table or shelf near the door for loose items, reducing the risk of falling while unlocking the door or entering.
• When outdoors, use railings and avoid dimly lit areas to avoid slipping on wet pavements.

Managing Joint Pain in Seniors During Rainy Weather

Wet and cold weather can aggravate joint pain for seniors, especially for those with arthritis or other joint issues. Prolonged inactivity may lead to stiffness and discomfort. To help alleviate these problems, caregivers should encourage seniors to:

• Engage in light exercises such as stretching or taking short walks around their neighborhood parks or void decks.
• Maintain regular physical activity to reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and boost their emotional well-being.
• Regular movement keeps seniors physically active and helps promote a healthy lifestyle in a community-focused environment.

Emergency Preparedness Tips

Wet weather can sometimes lead to flooding, power outages, or transportation delays, particularly during monsoon seasons. Caregivers should have an emergency plan in place:

• Emergency contacts: Ensure the senior has a list of emergency contacts (including family members, neighbors, and healthcare providers) that is easily accessible.
• First aid kit: Keep a first aid kit stocked and within easy reach.
• Emergency essentials: Ensure the senior has access to essential items, like medications, water, and flashlights, in case of power outages or emergencies.

Additional Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe During Wet Weather

Lastly, caregivers can monitor weather forecasts to stay informed about when to stay indoors. If it is raining or cold outside, consider utilising delivery services for prescriptions, groceries, and other essentials to ensure that elderly care recipients can remain safely at home.

If the care receivers live alone, maintain regular communication and visit them frequently, especially during stormy weather. If you do not live nearby, ask family members, friends, neighbours, volunteers, or social services to check in and help ensure the safety of your loved ones.

Article reviewed by Loh Wan Ying, HMI.