When springtime rolls around, many people across the country start preparing for the summer months by deep cleaning their homes. Senior citizens are familiar with the tradition. There are a number of ways to assist your elderly loved one with his or her annual spring cleaning project and make the task easier, more efficient, and enjoyable.
If your loved one needs additional help with spring cleaning, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Palm Harbor, FL, home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
1. Have a Plan
List all the chores you and your loved one need to get done, and set a reasonable time frame to complete the cleaning. Wash the windows, the walls, the floors, and the carpets, and then go through the medicine cabinet for medications that have expired or need refills. Clean out the fridge and freezer, and throw away food that has gone bad. Other tasks to consider include:
- Replacing batteries in smoke detectors
- Replacing light bulbs
- Removing throw rugs, which could cause falls
- Updating emergency contact lists and instructions
- Installing grab bars or other assistive devices in the bathroom
2. Include Your Loved One
Not all spring cleaning chores are easy for seniors to accomplish independently. However, you should still try to include your loved one in the activities as much as possible. Depending on your loved one’s cognitive and physical abilities, he or she might choose to sort through closets or other spaces for items that are no longer of any use and can be discarded or given to charity. To prevent hurt feelings, consult with your loved one before moving or removing items.
3. Eliminate Clutter
Some seniors are fond of accumulating items that may pose an obstruction hazard. Make a mental note of anything that blocks pathways around rooms or from one room to another. Clear out garages, where clutter tends to accumulate. Talk to your loved one before you look for a different location for treasured items or before discarding anything. If you have enough people to help you and the weather permits, take a look at the yard and clear paths to trash bins, the garage, or the driveway.
A professional caregiver is a great option for times when you and your loved one require an extra pair of hands. Families who need additional assistance caring for an elderly loved one should consider hiring a professional caregiver. Palm Harbor, FL, seniors and their families trust in Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality in-home care on an as-needed basis. Our caregivers take pride in helping seniors remain healthy while promoting their quality of life.
4. Get Rid of Unnecessary Items
While spring cleaning, you might come across items that have not been used in a year or more. These might include bedding, clothing, decorations, or old furniture. With your loved one’s permission, the items can be donated. When you discard forgotten or rarely used objects, your loved one will have less to clean next spring.
5. Host a Spring Cleaning Party
Invite family or friends who have some time to help your loved one with cleaning and reorganizing tasks. Play your loved one’s favorite music in the background while cleaning. People can also bring a covered dish or a dessert to enjoy during breaks. If weather permits, consider having a BBQ. Spring cleaning can be a great way to get together, make new memories and accomplish important chores. Your elderly loved one is likely to enjoy the company.
Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need respite from your caregiving duties, the Palm Harbor hourly care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our hourly care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts. To learn more about our live-in and hourly home care, call a Care Manager at (727) 330-7862 to request a complimentary consultation.