Winter brings extra household tasks, from clearing snow to cleaning gutters and checking outdoor areas. Some of these jobs can be difficult or unsafe to manage on your own, especially when temperatures drop and surfaces become slippery. Senior Helpers shares some practical ways to manage winter home chores so you can keep up with household needs without taking on unnecessary risks.
Which Winter Home Chores Can You Hand Off?
When deciding which tasks to delegate, consider the physical effort, equipment, and risks involved.
Shovelling snow is one of the first jobs to consider handing over. Wet snow can be heavy, and the packed snow left by a city snowplough can be especially difficult to move. Family members, neighbours, or a snow removal service can clear the driveway and walkways after a storm. If you plan to hire someone, arrange the service before winter when contractors are setting their seasonal schedules.
Spreading ice melt on steps and walkways is another task someone else can handle. Keep a supply near the entrance so a family member or neighbour can apply it before you head outside. The Canadian injury prevention organization Parachute offers additional advice on reducing fall risks among older adults.
Other outdoor jobs worth delegating include moving patio furniture into storage and carrying heavy bags of salt, birdseed, or other supplies.
Leave Roof and Ladder Work to Others
Eavestroughs should be cleared of leaves before freezing temperatures arrive so melting snow and rain can drain properly. However, cleaning eavestroughs, removing icicles, and dealing with ice dams are tasks best left to qualified professionals. Climbing a ladder in cold or icy conditions can lead to serious falls.
You can also ask a family member to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms during a visit. Test them according to the manufacturer's instructions, and replace batteries when needed. If an alarm is mounted high on the ceiling, have someone else handle the task.
Getting the House Ready for Cold Weather
Some maintenance jobs are easier to arrange before temperatures drop. A licensed technician should inspect and service the furnace each year. You can also ask someone to change the furnace filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations, disconnect garden hoses, and shut off outdoor taps.
Preparing for power outages is another task to add to your winter home chores. A family member can help put together an emergency kit and check it throughout the season. The Government of Canada's Get Prepared website has advice on emergency plans and supplies.
Finding Reliable People to Help
Family members and neighbours may be willing to take on occasional jobs, such as clearing snow or bringing supplies inside. You can also look into local volunteer programs or hire professionals for more demanding work. A written list of recurring winter home chores can make it easier to divide responsibilities and arrange help before the next storm.
For paid services, request a written estimate and ask whether the contractor has appropriate insurance. Be cautious of anyone who approaches you after a storm demanding full payment upfront for roof or eavestrough work. Agreeing on the job and cost before work begins can prevent misunderstandings.
In-Home Support You Can Rely On During the Winter Months
Some household responsibilities can also become harder to manage when winter limits your usual outings and activities. Senior Helpers Mississauga Central provides in-home care services, including companionship, light housekeeping, errands, and transportation for seniors in Chelsea Towers, City Centre, Creditview, East Credit, and Erindale. Contact us to start exploring your options.