Benefits of generators for the elderly

In our area, having a generator during a power outage is very beneficial. As experienced this past winter, Central Hudson comments that it was the worst winter on record. A generator can provide peace of mind and may actually be life-saving or, at the very least, ease an unpleasant experience such as an extended power outage due to something like a storm. As long as proper safety considerations are followed, having a generator can be incredibly valuable during a power outage. If an emergency arises, you will be glad you took this extra step. While generators can be a great tool for people of any age, they tend to be especially valuable for the elderly.

The elderly face more distress than the average person. Elderly individuals tend to get the most benefit from having a generator. Because they are more susceptible to temperature variations and are at greater risk for hypothermia during the winter months than younger individuals, being without heat or air conditioning for an extended length of time can be detrimental to the health of elderly individuals. Many elderly individuals also rely on medications that require refrigeration. If an extended power outage occurs, the medicine can go bad, which can cause serious complications. For an elderly, insulin-dependent diabetic, keeping a power supply to the refrigerator is crucial.

Having a generator in case of a power outage is a wise decision. A generator can provide added peace of mind until power is restored by keeping power supplied to your house. We often forget how much we rely on power to keep perishable food and medication that require refrigeration to be stored at the proper temperature.

If you have any elderly family member who currently doesn’t have a generator, consider getting them one as a gift or having other family members chip in with you so the cost isn’t too prohibitive. It’s a gift that could literally save a life.

Written by Don Veith, Veith Electric in Poughkeepsie, NY. For more information on generators, please contact them at 845-485-2900 or www.veithelectric.com.

Care Keeper Farm in Millbrook, NY

Houlihan Lawrence's Carol Smerling's spare time is solely devoted to her Millbrook rescue farm for abandoned donkeys and mules, Caring Keeper Farm. Aside from her donkeys and mules the farm is also home to 6 fabulous, rescued dogs of all shapes and sizes. In addition to Turning Pointe, Carol also supports Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Turning Pointe Donkey Rescue (aka TPDR and/or the rescue) is a Michigan based non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of miniature,standard and mammoth donkeys. Through the rescue, they promote the humane care and proper training of these long ears. They strive to provide the public with a better understanding of their true nature. Our efforts will be directed towards education of perspective and current donkey owners. Donkeys come to the rescue from a variety of difficult situations. They will be matched with the most compatible, compassionate and supportive environment.

When you hire Carol to represent you in a real estate transaction, she donates a portion of her earnings from each transaction to the animal rescue groups. So not only are you getting an experienced, knowledgeable Realtor, you are supporting a worthy cause too!
Carol can be reached at 845-677-6161 ext. 311.

Hudson Valley Independent Living

As a general contractor in the Hudson Valley for over 20 years, Meyer Contracting recognizes that, as our loved ones grow older, they may require modifications to their homes. These alterations can include front entrances, stairways, bathrooms, kitchens and other changes, all for continued mobility, while still providing a safe, secure and obstacle-free living environment.

The Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) program, instituted by AARP and the National Association of Home Builders, provides a certification for contractors in designing and remodeling homes for maturing adults and those with special needs.

As a Certified Aging in Place contractor, we understand the needs of the senior and special needs population, and will design environments that will accommodate individuals that require barrier-free living. With our expert knowledge in Aging-in-Place design, we provide high quality remodeling solutions, while keeping the customer’s budget in mind.

For more information or to schedule your or your family member’s FREE, no obligation consultation, please contact us at 845-635-1416.