Although the weather doesn’t always cooperate with us, the spring season is definitely in full swing. With warmer and sunnier days approaching, most of us are looking forward to spending more time in the great outdoors. This is true no matter your age. However, for older adults, practicing safety measures is a big part of having fun in the sun. While spring is a beautiful season, it does have the potential of presenting unique challenges for seniors.
As the weather warms up and nature comes back to life, seniors need to be aware of potential risks to their health and safety. Here are six safety solutions for seniors to help ensure a super springtime:
1. Be mindful of your allergens.
For many people, “spring” and “allergy season” are synonymous. As you’re surely aware, the springtime brings about pollen, which is a known allergy trigger. Although pollen can impact allergy sufferers of all ages, seniors need to be particularly cautious around many of nature’s elements. The allergen can lead to symptoms such as sneezing coughing and itchy eyes. Seniors can reduce their exposure to pollen by keeping windows closed, using air purifiers and regularly washing their hands and clothes after being outdoors.
“You may want to restrict your outdoor activities on days when the pollen count is high,” suggests Ontario’s Sunshine Drugs, “Should you need to venture outdoors, attempt to do it either early in the morning or late in the evening when pollen counts tend to be lower outside. Understanding daily pollen trends can help you schedule your outdoor activities during times when you’re less likely to experience allergy symptoms.”
2. Limit your sun exposure.
Who doesn’t love to be outdoors on a sunny day? For many Canadians, hibernation is the name of the game during the long and cold winter seasons. With spring comes the need to be out in the sun, wearing short-sleeved shirts and shorts. Without proper protection from the sun, however, this endeavour can lead to disaster. Seniors are encouraged to remember that they are more susceptible to sunburn and heat-related illnesses. It’s essential that they wear sunscreen with a high SPF, protective clothing and hats when going outside. As well, they should stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
“Limit sun exposure between 11 am and 3 pm and especially around midday,” advises the Canadian Dermatology Association, “If possible, try to keep children out of the sun from noon to 2 pm when the sun’s radiation is strongest. Use wide-brimmed or legionnaire-style hats, as well as clothing to shade the skin. If using a baseball cap, don’t forget to apply sunscreen on the face, neck and ears.”
3. Do some outdoor spring cleaning.
It’s vital to have a home that is as clutter-free as possible if seniors dwell within it. Naturally, the fewer tripping hazards there are, the lower the chances of a slip and fall. As noted, springtime brings people outdoors. Are the pathways surrounding your property debris-free? It’s important to do some outdoor spring cleaning to prevent accidents. When going outdoors, seniors should also be cautious on uneven surfaces, using assistive devices if needed.
“For seniors, maintaining a clean and tidy living environment is crucial,” insists myCareBase Solutions Inc., “It helps prevent accidents and injuries by eliminating hazards such as clutter and tripping hazards. A clean home also promotes better air quality, which is particularly important for seniors with respiratory issues. Spring cleaning can have significant mental health benefits, providing a sense of accomplishment and pride in one’s living space.”
4. Beware of pests and insects.
Most of us love it when the cold transitions into warmth. However, most of us hate it when that warmth brings bugs along with it. It is quite common for warmer weather to lure pests and insects. They aren’t just a nuisance. In many cases, they can pose health risks for seniors. Older adults can protect themselves by keeping their living spaces clean, sealing cracks and openings and using insect repellent when outdoors. As well, let it be known that pesticides aren’t the only solution to pest control.
“The kitchen is full of herbs, spices, and other ingredients that can double as pest control,” informs Peter of Ontario’s Mr. Pest Control, “Ants, for example, are controlled by finding and sealing entry points with petroleum jelly, sprinkling chilli pepper, garlic, or pure cinnamon. Pepper flakes, onions, and garlic are also a few of the things used by homemakers to control the rodent populations around the house.”
5. Protect yourself from pollution.
We are all exposed to polluted air at some point. It’s all about limiting your exposure. The combination of more people being out on the road and increased temperatures bring about a boost in pollution. As a result, the springtime is known for exacerbating respiratory conditions in seniors. Older adults are cautioned to their limit outdoor activities on high pollution days. As well, they should use air purifiers indoors and consult their healthcare providers if they experience any breathing difficulties.
“Be aware of potential hazards in your indoor environment and try to reduce exposure,” stressed The Climate Atlas of Canada, “Close your windows and turn off your furnace and air conditioner if they are drawing smoke or irritants indoors. Keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials inside. Use HEPA air filters if you can.”
6. Invest in mobility solutions.
If the older adults in your life contend with mobility issues, it’s wise to equip them with solutions that will significantly improve their safety. At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we offer a wide variety of mobility solutions including wheelchairs, electric mobility scooters and so much more!
We always ensure that you have the complete picture to make an informed decision. You will know all of the possible options so you can choose which solution is best for your loved one. To learn all about them, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
