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Safety Tips for Winterizing Your Senior's Vehicle

By Ruby Cemental

Winter is upon us, and as we make sure that our loved ones have appropriate outerwear to handle the weather, we should be sure that our vehicles are prepared to handle it, too. As we make sure that our aging seniors have the comforts they need at home, we should check that they have what they need to be on the road as well. This includes winterizing your senior's vehicle. Here are some tips!

Vehicle Maintenance

Regular winterizing maintenance includes the following:

  • Check the battery for corrosion on the posts

  • Make sure the wiper blades are in good shape and the wiper fluid is full

  • Check the tread on the tires while also checking for wear on the sides of the tires

  • Check the tire pressure

  • Check the anti-freeze level

  • Check the oil level and the change date

  • Check the belts and hoses

Emergency Supplies

Not only does your loved one's vehicle require the typical winterizing maintenance, but it is a good idea to make sure there is an emergency kit within the interior of the vehicle. Think in terms of being stranded when putting together such a kit, and include items such as:

  • Extra blanket

  • Water bottles

  • Snacks that hold up during freezing water, such as granola bars

  • Fully-charged portable charger that's compatible with your senior's cell phone

  • Spare pair of socks, gloves, and a cap, as heat is lost through the extremities

  • Working flash light

  • Portable air compressor

  • Road flares

  • First aid kit

It's a good idea to also have your loved one inform you of any errands or road trips that may take him away from the typical routes he takes. Be sure that location-finding is also enabled on his cell phone.

Keeping your senior's car, truck, or van winterized ensures that the vehicle may last longer, and it also helps maintain peace of mind as your loved one runs errands or makes road trips during the sometimes-brutal forces of Old Man Winter.

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Tags: Senior Safety