your own thermostat Archives -

Are you ready to turn the heat on? How about the rest of the family?

The elderly are often cold, even in summer as the air conditioner or fans blow on them. With winter around the corner, they face another challenge. So does the caregiver who is probably kept busy most of the time and ready to cool the place down. Elderly or infirm, on the other hand, are most likely looking forward to finally having some heat.

How do you manage to keep your family comfortable without beginning a war?

Start by considering your own thermostat; yes, your own. That may seem self-centered at the very least, but it is important as you have a direct effect on the temperature control for everyone in the home: it’s not about you!

Are you constantly adjusting the controls because you are too hot or too cold? Do you grab a wrap when chilly, or up the thermostat? Then, you get too hot and yank off that wrap, turn down the heat, and wonder why no one else understands it’s just too hot in the house!

You do not have to simply skim through another season; take time to think first!

I have a suggestion for you; grab a cup of coffee, put your feet up (you CAN take a few minutes to do this), and let’s look at four helps for you and your family or one you care for.

1. With notepad in hand, answer the above questions for yourself personally. DO you fit in one or more of those categories? Especially consider when you adjust the temperature; is it as you are busy doing your work? Is it when you are in a certain room?
2. Consider those in your care. Is there an elderly person who cannot get up and care for themselves? Do you have ample wraps near them? Are they clean, soft, and ready for use—not too heavy for them to handle?
3. If you are caring for someone who is confined to one particular area, have you sat there for a period of time? Do you know if there is a draft around them? Are they sitting where they can feel the heat when it’s turned up?
4. Have you considered small space heaters (or fans) for some areas? This requires a lot of planning to be absolutely sure it is a wise move. Additional appliances of any type bring with them their own set of cautions.

Before making any serious adjustments in your family; make sure overall health of each individual is considered. Do not overlook the fact that your medical personnel may be able to help solve this issue (i.e. medicines often play a role in our body temps.)

Praying for you to have a Fantastic Fall and Wonderful Winter as you care not only for those entrusted to you but also care for yourself!

Hugs,