Surviving The Snowy Winter
Well, it is here. The ever dreaded winter, cold blistering wind, snowy nights and bone chilling temperatures. Even though the calendar hasn’t officially hit December 21st we all can agree it’s here. With the mark of the first snow storm this week the biggest question is who is cleaning up this snow? For an average age adult, the answer to the question is easy. You’re either firing up the snow blower, putting your boots on to shovel or you have the means to pay someone to remove it.
For an older adult the answer may not be as easy.
Many older adults may not be able to remove the snow themselves or pay someone to come and shovel. This leaves many seniors homebound and unable to get out for days, leading to missed doctor appointments or caregivers not being able to get in.
Kane Senior Council received numerous amounts of phone calls from stranded seniors who were desperate to have their snow removed. They were left helpless and unable to receive the care needed for everyday life. Our staff was wondering what we could do to help. Unfortunately, we do not offer a snow removal service for seniors in Kane County.
There are several suggestions for seniors that can benefit them during the snowy months.
Some communities offer a snow removal program for seniors or homebound residents at a reduced cost. Call your local township office or visit their website. Each town may be difference and follow different protocols. If they are full for this year make sure to call in the late summer for more details for the upcoming winter to be prepared.
Get friendly with your neighbor and get to know them on a personal level. Many times a neighbor or a group of neighborhood kids will be looking to shovel drive ways. If they know you are in need of snow removal, you’ll be the first person that comes to mind. So next time you see your neighbors, pop outside and give a quick hello!
If you are an older adult that is not on a fixed income or have some disposable income, you may want to look into heated snow melting mats. These mats are slip proof and can be left out all winter long. They are simple to use, once they are installed you can turn them on and off just by using a remote from the comfort of your home. They are easy to install and can be done by a local volunteer or handy man.
Learn more about heated mats at https://heattrak.com/.
Those are just a few suggestions that we have come across after the first big snow of the season! Stay tuned for more of our snowy suggestions and tales from the tundra we call home!
