Step safely outside

by We Care Home Health Services | 167 days ago | 571 page views
Topics: Health & Wellness

Outside the home and winter weather pose risks for those prone to falls

As we age our body changes and we become more prone to falls. One reason is because our vision is affected says registered nurse and We Care Heath Services employee, Sue Kelly.

“Our depth perception changes,” the nurse admits, which can affect how we use the stairs outside our home. She suggests using colourful, strong and waterproof tape along the outer edges of the stairs so you can see where one step ends and the next begins. “You can also pain the edges of the stairs so that you can see the levels as you walk down,” Kelly suggests.

In addition to the tape or paint on your outside stairs, you should also have at least one secure railing to help prevent falls.

To further prevent falls outside, Kelly recommends leaving an outside light on when you know you will be returning home after dark, or installing motion sensor lighting that will brighten your path when you arrive home.

“As we age another area of the body that changes is our feet.” They can become swollen, painful and less sensitive, symptoms that are exaggerated in the winter. To help counter-balance these effects of aging, choose footwear with a wide heel and shoe base. “The more rubber you have in the sole of your shoes, the greater grip you will have on the ice and snow,” she admits.

You can also add ice grips to the bottom of your winter shoes for extra security.

“If your doctor has added a cane for you, please use it.” Kelly also suggests attaching an ice pick to your cane. These can flip down to provided added security if you should run into some ice or snow.

“If you do not use a cane, Nordic walking sticks are amazing for giving you that extra confidence,” Kelly says. They are also great for a low-intensity workout that uses 90 per cent of your body’s muscles.

For a complimentary copy of We Care’s Independent Living guide, highlighting steps like these in and around the home, call 1-877-853-1195 or visit www.wecare.ca for more information about what Care Health Services has to offer.

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