According to Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), data shown on Injury and Trauma Quick Stats, stated that in 2020, half of all injury-related hospitalizations were by Canadian seniors, who fell at home.  Preventable falls are the #1 reason for injury-related deaths, hospitalizations and emergency room visits by older adults, and as our population ages, this number is expected to increase.  Falls can lead to devastating injury and the lasting effects of chronic pain and reduced Quality of Life.  Parachute Canada is a national charity for injury prevention, and the best way to prevent falls, is to prepare for them.  Focussing on lifestyle key strategies and increasing awareness, you can prepare your environment to be less hazardous, and more of a safe haven.  Below are some tips and tools that can help keep you safe in your home.

Senior Home Safety in the Bathroom

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention , about 235,000 people over the age of 15 ended up in the emergency room because of a bathroom injury. To help prevent being one of those numbers, here are some tips to help make your bathroom safer:

• Add some traction to the bathroom floor and tub with slip-resistant mats, which can help minimize slips and falls.
• Instead of using the flimsy towel bar, install grab bars. Grab bars are more stable, can handle a person’s body weight, and can be strategically placed in the room to provide stability when needed.
• Invest in a walk in-tub, which help people with mobility issues enjoy a relaxing bath without having to step over a slippery edge. You can sit safely while you bathe which reduces the risk of slipping.

Stair Safety

Stairways are the second most common area for falls besides the bathroom.  The following are essential to ensure your safety at or near the stairs:

• Handrails:  ensure handrail is securely attached at, above and below the stairs to landings.
• Lighting:  ensure stairs and hallways are well lit, and switches are easy to reach.
• Clutter-free:  remove all items from stairs and landings, even if they are just placed temporarily

Senior Home Safety in the Bedroom

We spend at least eight hours of our day in the bedroom, and it should be a place that provides safety and security, especially for those with mobility issues. Here are some safety tips to incorporate in the bedroom:

• Reduce clutter: Over time we accumulate stuff, and it may be hard to purge it or find new homes for some items. However, this is a necessary step for increased home safety. Removing the clutter can help because it eliminates potential obstacles in walkways, frees up space, and can keep you organized. Tuck shoes and slippers out of the walking area.
• Nightstand: Keep your bedside table or nightstand neat and clean, and use only for essential items
• Assistive Devices: Keep within reach or use a SuperPole to help you in and out of bed and/or the areas you need support.
• Telephone: Keep a cordless telephone or emergency button within reach of your bedside table.
• Furniture Placement: Create a clear path from your door to bed to bathroom, and chairs out of the way.
• Nightlights: Try installing (sensor) night lights throughout your home, as they can provide enough light to guide your path.
• Eliminate Cord Clutter: Electrical cords can be a tripping hazard if they’re not organized. To stay safe, invest in a power strip to space out the cables.
• Smoke & C0 Detectors: Have smoke/C0 alarms installed outside each sleeping area.  Have someone check and replace the batteries in all detectors   Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years

Senior Home Safety in the Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home and a place to eat as a family, but did you know it’s one of the more dangerous rooms in the house?  The National Fire Protection Association  stated that 3 in 10 home fires start in the kitchen, but that’s not the only safety issue. Check out these safety tips to help make your kitchen safer:

• To prevent fires, practise Fire Safety & Prevention: stay in the kitchen when you are cooking. Turn burners off if you have to leave the room, and after you’ve completed your cooking or baking. Make sure to turn off appliances that aren’t being used or invest in ones that have automatic shut off features such as toasters, coffee makers, rice cookers, and tea kettles.
• Be organized: clear countertops for only regularly used essentials within reach, and clean dishware regularly.
• Clean up cluttered messes to avoid the risk of slipping.
• Make sure that heavier objects are at knee to waist level and use lightweight dishes and glassware.
• All rugs are tripping hazards: eliminate kitchen rugs or ensure that it is rubber-backed so that it doesn’t move.
• Do you have a pet? Put water & food bowls out of the way to avoid tripping and slipping on spilled water.
• Make sure the kitchen is well-lit with both daytime and nighttime lighting.
• Have smoke alarms installed on every level of your home outside each sleeping area. Have someone check and replace the batteries in all smoke detectors   Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years.

 

Strategies for Avoiding Falls Altogether

By taking care of your health and wellness, you can avoid illness.

Focus on the following strategies, and by seeking assistance with some light to moderate exercise programs, to can age longer and stronger.

• Get Active
• Physical activities that challenge balance
• Muscle strengthening at least 2x per week
• and moderate to vigorous aerobic physical activities of at least 150 minutes per week
• Get Your Sleep (7 to 8 hours of quality sleep)
• Go Slow -but limit being sedentary
• Eat Right
• Stay Hydrated
• Safeguard Your Home & Bathroom
• Get Your Sight & Hearing Checked Regularly
• Review Your Medication with your Physician
• Wear Sturdy Shoes
• Use Mobility Devices for Safety

Active Aging Canada has some tips for keeping you active and on your feet.

Staying active is something we should be doing daily, and staying safe from weather outside is also important. Remember to hydrate first, wear sunblock and a hat.

These are just a few tips to help you help you stay safe in your home.  They are important considerations for both older adults and caregivers. For more ideas,  check out projects that can help seniors live independently.

You don’t have to be an older adult to observe safe practices and prevent falling.

Safety is for everyone!

 

For more information on Bathroom Safety:

  American Standard Walk-in Tubs Canada  1-844-867-7737

 

 

Tis the season to be thankful! As Thanksgiving approaches, we shift to a space of reflection and practice gratitude for all that has happened this year. Like all things, the process of aging can present its fair set of challenges, but the positive aspects of old age drastically outweigh the negatives. American Standard highlights things to be thankful for this season and year-round. From the financial perks like senior discounts and Federal programs and services for seniors, to the wonderful knowledge that can only come with decades of experience, there is a multitude of things to be thankful for as we age.

Top Advantages of Older Age

1. Wisdom (From Learned Experience). The saying, “experience is the best teacher” exists for a reason. That’s because experience brings about wisdom that can’t be learned otherwise. You learn more from things that happen to you in real life than you ever will from studying things that happen to other people. Along with the wisdom that comes from learned experience, another advantage of older age is the ability to empathize. Empathy is sensing other people’s emotions and imagining what someone else might be thinking or feeling.
2. A Happier Outlook. Perspective has a way of showing you that ultimately, life always works out. In fact, researchers are beginning to uncover the biological and developmental underpinnings of gratitude that suggest it may be easier to feel grateful as we grow older. Neuroscientists have suggested older people have a sunnier outlook because the amygdala, an area of the brain involved in emotional attention and memory, becomes less active in response to the negative information. At the same time, older individuals maintain or even increase their reactivity to positive information.
3. Opportunity to Pursue Lifelong Dreams. Many aging adults have reached the age of retirement. Not working gives retirees 40+ hours of free time back every week which can be dedicated to pursuing other lifelong passions and dreams.
4. Financial Perks. One of the obvious positive aspects of senior age is the opportunity to save money through tax credits. Government programs include Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors, Old Age Security, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan. There are also an abundance of senior discounts, including those specific to travel, dining, and shopping.
5. More Time for Loved Ones. More free time usually translates to more time to spend with those who really matter. Which brings us to our next advantage of old age…
6. Grandchildren. What’s better than your own children? Grandchildren. The experience of raising your own children makes you value your grandchildren that much more. They offer the love and fulfilling relationship, with a less responsibility.
7. More Stable Friendships and Relationships. By the time you’ve reached old age, you’ve likely been able to filter through toxic friendships and relationships that suck the life out of you. Having and maintaining quality friendships and relationships contribute to companionship, which is a huge factor for longevity.
8. Good Stories to Tell. Who doesn’t appreciate a good story? The longer you live, the more experiences you have, which translates to more good stories to tell. Fond memories, whether kept to yourself or told to someone else, are a huge advantage of old age.
9. A Greater Sense of Self. The older you are, the more you know WHO you are. Having a greater sense of who you are allows you to be less influenced by outside opinion and less bound by cultural restraints. When you have a greater sense of self, decision making is easier. Knowing yourself allows you to be yourself, and no one can say you’re doing it wrong! And taking care of yourself helps you to know your own needs for health and wellness.

Now that you have plenty of things to be grateful for, let’s look at fun ways to practice that gratitude!

Best Ways to Practice Gratitude

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal. Spend a few minutes each night thinking about three to five highlights from your day, then write them down. You can reflect upon your gratitude journal whenever you need to be reminded of all the things you are thankful for.
2. Set Reminders in Your Phone. Harness technology for good and put in subtle reminders every day to be thankful. Reminders can come in the form of an inspirational quote, a compliment to yourself, or a simple activity like looking outside and admiring the changing colors of the leaves.
3. Take Three Deep Breaths.This easy practice can allow for one simple moment of gratitude. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, and start the flow of thankful energy. Be grateful for your breath, because you wouldn’t be here without it. Continue to meditate in that gratitude for a few seconds or longer if you choose.
4. Say Thank You. Say thank you to everyone in your life, from friends and family to colleagues to the check-out person at the grocery store. Verbalizing your gratitude is a great way to cultivate it.
5. Smile. Smiling makes your brain happy and it’s proven by science. When a smile flashes across your face; dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin are all released into your bloodstream, making you more relaxed. Pick a day where you will smile at three random people as you walk by them, which communicates a sense of oneness and well-being.
6. Reach Out and Express It.Send a text message, make a phone call, write a post on social media. A simple “thank you for making my life brighter” message, in any format, can go a long way to both the giver and the receiver.
7. Give Compliments Daily. Whether you know the person or not, give compliments away as you think of them. Be genuine and specific. When Mark Twain said, “I can live two months on a good compliment,” he only told one side of the story. While the individual who receives the praise will appreciate feeling noticed and valued (and is motivated to do more of the same), the giver can also delight in the connection.
8. Put Inspirational Quotes Around Your House. Whether it’s written hastily on a Post-It note or framed as a piece of art, inspirational quotes and images can serve as reminders to be grateful around your house. That way, every time you sit down at your desk or walk down a particular hallway, that subtle reminder is there.
9. Slow Down and Savor the Small Things. Choose one everyday experience and take time to enjoy every aspect of it. For example, if you take a walk in the morning, take in all the sights, sounds, and smells. Appreciating the small things will only allow for greater appreciation of the big things.

There is never a shortage of things to be thankful for if we just take the time to look. This Thanksgiving, be sure to cultivate an “attitude of gratitude” that can last throughout the year.

Learn more about living your best life with a ComfortSeries™.

On Monday, April 8^th there will be a total solar eclipse that will cross the eastern side of Canada from southern Ontario, and Quebec towards the Maritimes, following the path of totality over two of our great lakes and the St. Lawrence River.

Millions of people throughout North American will be witnessing this rare celestial event, which won’t happen again over parts of Canada until 2044.

Depending on where you live, the Great North American Eclipse will take approximately 2 ½ hours in duration, with the actual total eclipse event lasting only 2-3 minutes.

You can check your city on this Eclipse Simulator to see the event times.

 

Watching it Safely

We all know that you cannot look in the direction of the sun without eye damage.  So, if you are going to be participating in an Eclipse Watch Party, please ensure that you have proper eyewear.  Many municipalities are offering free Solar Eclipse glasses, or you can purchase them at several camera retailers.  Make sure that the legitimate eclipse glasses bear the manufacturer’s name and address on the label, and the ISO code IS 12312-2 is clearly noted.  Eclipse glasses must not be scratched, torn or punctured.

If you don’t have your solar eyewear, or you are not able nor interested, you can watch the event on television or in the local media.

Or, you can have a little fun and create your own “fun in the bathtub” Solar Eclipse!

 

 

Instructions:

1. Check out the actual solar eclipse times happening close to you, so you know when to start your bath.
   • The complete process occurs over 2 ½ hours, starting around 2:00p in southern Ontario; however, you may not wish to be in the bathtub that long, unless you are really enjoying yourself. The inline heater helps to keep your water at your desired temperature, so stay in as long as you want!
   • The total eclipse starts at 3:13p (for 2-3 minutes) in southern Ontario, and at 5:09p in Newfoundland.
2. With your ComfortSeries™ chromatherapy lights turned on to yellow or red (sun) at 2p, use your bath scrunchie or round loofah (moon), and follow the timeline for complete totality using your bath lights.

 

Did you know that you can even do this without the water in the bathtub?

Maybe you are babysitting your grandkids, and looking for something fun to do.  All you have to do is turn out the bathroom lights, sit in the bathtub, and turn on the chromatherapy lights, and follow the fun instructions above.

 

While this activity may seem silly, it’s still fun, and it gets you in your hydrotherapy tub for a massage session— for relaxation, and maybe reduce some aches and pains along the way.

 

Chromatherapy Tip:

When the sun is not shining as brightly in dreary weather, we can feel gloomy too.  ComfortSeries™ chromatherapy lights are designed to assist with emotional wellness, and can help support your mental well-being using light therapy.  Just sit in your ComfortSeries™ bathtub (with or without water) and turn on the chromatherapy lights, as often as you need.

For more information on ComfortSeries™ spa bathtubs and the healing benefits of Chromatherapy, scan the QR code with your digital device.

by American Standard Walk-in Tubs—Canada

1-844-867-7737

AmericanStandardWalkinTubs2u.com

1. What is Poor Leg Circulation?
2. Causes of Poor Circulation
3. Symptoms of Poor Circulation
4. Treatments for Poor Leg Circulation

The circulatory system delivers blood, oxygen, and nutrients to all cells in the body. When blood flow in your body is reduced, you may start to experience the symptoms of poor circulation in your legs and feet. These symptoms can include numbness and muscle cramping, and one of the most common areas for poor circulation is the legs. If you believe you are suffering from poor circulation symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor and learn how to improve blood circulation.

Let’s look at the causes, symptoms, and treatments of poor leg circulation:

What is Poor Leg Circulation?

Poor leg circulation, or peripheral artery disease (PAD), is a circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs. While it commonly occurs in the legs, peripheral artery disease can also affect the peripheral arteries to the stomach, arms, and head. The arteries harden due to plaque buildup in the arteries and blood vessels, and this blocks the normal blood flow through the vessels and results in poor circulation in the legs.

While it isn’t a condition in itself, poor leg circulation may be a sign of larger health issues. If you’re experiencing the associated symptoms of poor blood circulation, it’s important to consult with your doctor, who can check for other health complications that may worsen over time. These can include obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, and various heart and arterial conditions.

What Causes Poor Circulation in the Legs?

Poor leg circulation is often caused by a health condition called atherosclerosis. With atherosclerosis, fatty deposits (or plaque) build up and constrict your artery walls, reducing blood flow. It starts with damage to the endothelium, a thin layer of cells around the arteries, often caused by high blood pressure, smoking, or high cholesterol. When the endothelium is damaged, bad cholesterol enters the artery wall and leads to the formation of plaque.

As atherosclerosis progresses, plaque builds up and narrows the arteries in the legs. This limits the blood flow to your muscles.

Other factors that increase your risk for poor leg circulation include:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Increasing age, especially after age 50
• A family history of peripheral artery disease, heart disease, or stroke
• Lack of regular exercise
• Unhealthy diet

Those who smoke or have diabetes have a higher risk of poor leg circulation because of reduced blood flow.

What are the Symptoms of Poor Leg Circulation?

People with poor leg circulation may experience muscle pain and cramping in the legs. This leg pain is usually caused by physical activity, like walking, but disappears after a few minutes of rest. The location of the leg pain depends on where the narrowed artery is. It can also affect different muscle groups, such as the hip, thigh, foot, and calf.

Symptoms of poor blood circulation in legs include:

• Leg numbness or tingling
• Cramping in hip, thigh, or calf muscles after physical activity
• Discoloration in legs
• Coldness in lower leg or foot
• Sores on your toes, feet, or legs

If poor circulation in your legs continues to persist over time, you may feel leg pain even when you’re sitting or lying down.

What are the Treatments for Poor Leg Circulation?

Poor leg circulation is a common problem, especially as we age. Fortunately, there are simple habits and lifestyle changes you can make to reduce pain associated with poor circulation in legs. While it’s important to consult with your doctor, here are some ways you can improve circulation in your legs at home:

Exercise Regularly

Although it can be difficult for those with poor leg circulation, exercise has been shown to improve blood flow and reduce leg pain. A lack of physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, is one of main causes of poor leg circulation.

Walking is a great exercise for poor leg circulation because it promotes the production of new blood vessels in the legs. This helps improve blood circulation and exercise tolerance. You may feel some pain and cramping in the legs at first, so start off slow by walking for 30 minutes three to five times a week. Then, gradually increase the duration to 60 minutes. As you adjust to walking regularly, you’ll see improved circulation in the legs and increased blood flow the rest of your body.

Resistance training is another good way to improve blood circulation in your legs. It increases muscle strength by making your muscles work against weights or force. This can help reduce muscle pain and cramping from poor leg circulation. Examples of exercises include leg extensions, hamstring curls, leg press, and squats. Similar to walking, it’s important to start off slowly and then gradually increase your repetitions as you get used to regular training.

Eat Healthier

A healthy, well-balanced diet is an important part of preventing plaque buildup in your arteries. Eating healthfully can reduce your risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and high cholesterol, which can all contribute to poor leg circulation and other serious health issues. Include more antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, and less sodium. Other ideas to incorporate include:

• Whole grains: great source of fiber, and can decrease cholesterol levels and improve circulation
• Fish: contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help decrease blood clot formation, cholesterol levels, and plaque buildup
• Garlic: decreases cholesterol buildup in the arteries of the legs
• Citrus fruits: high in vitamin C, which strengthens capillary walls and prevents plaque buildup
• Cayenne pepper: increases metabolic rate and strengthens arteries and blood vessels

Use Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy uses water to treat various health problems, including poor leg circulation. With hydrotherapy, the body is exposed to alternating hot and cold water. The body reacts to hot and cold water by expanding and constricting the arteries and veins. This promotes increased blood flow and circulation, and reduced sensitivity to pain.

Practice hydrotherapy in your bath by relaxing in a quick, 15-minute warm bath. This will help expand your blood vessels to improve blood flow to your legs. Don’t stay in for too long to avoid overheating. Walk-in tubs are great for whole-body hydrotherapy because they offer a deep soak, maximizing the benefits of hydrotherapy. Many walk-in tubs are equipped with a whirlpool or airbath feature for a relaxing and enjoyable hydrotherapy session.

American Standard’s ComfortSeries™️ Accessible & Walk-in Tubs are equipped with RevitaJet™ Whole Body Hydrotherapy System with 44 air and water jets that are strategically placed to create the ultimate at-home hydrotherapy experience in the comfort of your bathtub.  The jets can be adjusted and positioned to target any specific sore spots or wherever you feel your body most needs a massage.  This at-home massage therapy can be incredibly useful for all ages, but especially seniors who have limited mobility.  The ComfortSeries™️ Accessible Tub is safe and easy to get in and out of, and the jets are a therapeutic way to receive a daily massage for your whole body.  The massaging jets can target the back, legs, wrist and feet, which are common pain points for people with arthritis.  Whether you elevate the water temperature or stick with your usual heat, incorporating massage into your hydrotherapy session will further stimulate blood circulation in legs and feet, helping you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

Poor leg circulation is a common occurrence, and making a few life changes can help alleviate the symptoms of poor blood circulation in your legs. If you have any concerns in regards to your blood circulation, meet with your doctor to discuss treatment. For more information about the benefits of a walk-in tub to improve leg circulation, contact American Standard Walk-In Tubs Canada today.

This year on Valentine’s Day, we’re dedicating this post to improving heart health. The best way to stay healthy is having a smart lifestyle — especially as we get older! Here are a few fun activities you can engage on Hearts Day to make sure you’re keeping your lifestyle healthy, today and every day.

Fun Activities to Maintain a Healthy Heart

1. Get Moving

Aerobic physical activity or cardio is a great option for seniors looking to boost heart health. And the best part? You don’t have to jog! Cardio is easy to do and inexpensive. Plus, it’s a great way to spend family time. Could a neighborhood walk with your kids really improve your physical health? Yes!

To get the ball rolling, here are some moderate-intensity exercises for your heart and lungs that you can do to improve heart health.

• Brisk walking
• Tennis
• Swimming or water aerobics
• Cycling
• Hiking

Just remember to speak to your doctor before you start an exercise program.

2. Spend Time With Your Pet

Pets have been proven to reduce stress, which is one of the leading causes of heart health problems. Pet owners demonstrate lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, which reduces their risk of heart attack. During American Heart Month, give your pet extra cuddles, take a walk for some aerobic physical activity, or adopt a furry friend. Your heart will definitely appreciate it. Woof!

3. Treat Yourself to Some Chocolate

Believe it or not, one of the yummiest ways to improve your heart health is by eating chocolate. Although nutritionists agree that dark chocolate has the most health benefits, there is a study showing that all kinds of chocolate may help lower your risk of heart problems. If dark chocolate is your favorite sweet treat, you’re in luck. Dark chocolate contains less sugar, a higher ratio of cocoa, and more antioxidants. Eating chocolate helps you balance your cholesterol!

4. Have a Laugh

Go to see a comedy show, laugh with friends, or watch funny videos! Laughter tends to reduce blood pressure and a sense of humor is even better for your health. There is research showing the greater your sense of humor is, the lower the risk you have of developing heart disease. Laughing at humorous things also helps battle against distressing emotions like depression, anxiety, and anger, all of which increase the likelihood of heart problems. The saying “Laughter is the best medicine” truly does hit home with this heart healthy activity.

5. Eat Breakfast

We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it turns out that this morning meal can help you for years to come. A study of over 4,000 participants found that those who get less than five percent of their daily calories from breakfast (100 of the 2,000 recommended for women) were more likely to have clogged and damaged arteries than those who eat a high-energy breakfast (over 400 calories for women). Grab your fresh fruit, whip up some eggs, and improve your heart health with a tasty breakfast every day.

6. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Blissful, uninterrupted sleep is a necessary activity we all enjoy after a long day. You wake up feeling rested and energized after a good night’s sleep and your body benefits from it, too. Not getting enough sleep can lead to negative side effects. According to a 2017 study of nearly 13,000 adults, researchers found that those experiencing poor sleep had a 71% higher risk of ischemic heart disease and a 45% higher risk of stroke. There’s an easy solution, folks. Get those eight hours of shut eye and you’ll improve your heart health, as well as your memory and concentration.

7. Have a Hot Bath

Soaking in a hot bath is an effective way to relax your mind and rejuvenate your body. Bathing has also been found to reduce stress and improve your heart health. Recent studies have shown that people who take at least five hot baths a week have significantly lower markers of atherosclerosis and cardiac loading. Basically, five baths a week can improve your cardiovascular system, including circulation.

For today and the months to come, enjoy a daily bath with all the fun add-ons like candles, bubble bath products, and music. Just make sure you’re staying safe in the bathroom. A walk-in tub is a great way to increase ease-of-use and lower your chances of falling.

There’s no better time to start taking care of your health than Valentine’s Day. It doesn’t have to be a chore either. Improve your heart health with these fun activities that can help you be healthier and happier for the years to come.

Want to learn more about the best walk-in tub in Canada? Click the button below to get a free estimate!

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written by Lee-Anne Creery for American Standard Walk-in Tubs Canada

A time for celebration, fun and joy, the holiday season is for family, friends and loved ones.  Being careful and aware of safety risks and hazards in your home and in others’, will help ensure that you are safe and healthy.

Decorating

Everyone likes to put up decorations or lighting, but have you considered the material that each is made from, or the age of the item?  If not, it’s time you reviewed your decorations, and eliminate those that are not going to be safe.

Keep all decorations away from a fireplace and any candles, and never use real candles in a Holiday Tree.  All artificial trees and decorations should have a CSA approval and fire-resistant rating.  If it doesn’t, or isn’t visible, then it’s time to replace your decorations.  If you are purchasing new lights, look for LED which burn cooler and saves you money on your electrical bill.

When you purchase or replace your ornaments, try to select new ones that are shatterproof.  This way, if they are dropped or if a furry friend finds them, there won’t be glass to step on or clean up, saving you time, effort and money.

Ensure that the proper lighting and cords are used; make sure that they are properly rated for indoor use, and that the wires are not frayed or damaged.  Lights rated for outdoors only should not be used inside at all.  Follow use guidelines so that you don’t overload cords (think Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation), potentially causing a fire risk.

When decorating, have someone with you if you require a ladder or step-stool.  Having a child or grandchild help with decorating is a gift in itself.

Floor Safety

Keep your floor area clear to prevent any chance of falling.  Elaborate holiday arrangements if not properly placed out of the way of foot traffic, could cause you or your loved ones to trip and fall.  Keep floors clean and remove any scatter rugs that could cause a slip.  All rugs should be adhered to the floor or be rubber-backed to prevent any movement.  If you use an anti-fatigue mat in your kitchen where you prep food, place it exactly where you need it for standing on, and not in the middle of the floor where it will be a trip hazard.

Lighting

Holiday lighting is lovely, but be sure that all areas of your home are properly lit.  Dim holiday lighting can prevent you from seeing a potential hazard, can cause disorientation due to shadows and glares, and generally make it hard to see where you are going.  Light switches can be hard to see, so nightlights in bathrooms will help to ensure you can see where you are going.  If you are visiting overnight, take a nightlight with you, as your host may not have one.

As magical as wintertime is, it can also be a time of power-outages.  Keep a supply of flashlights (never candles) and spare batteries.  It’s probably good to keep blankets in an easy access closet, so you know where they are in case of a lack of heat during these outages.

 

COVID-19

The last couple of years have been difficult for many who cannot see and visit with their loved ones.  We know that there is an increased chance of spread where people congregate together, unknowingly passing the virus to those more vulnerable; however the latest variant Omicron has been deemed airborne.  So when you are planning to visit with family and friends over the holidays, reduce your risk by

• wearing a mask,
• stay in groups of less than 10 people, and
• sanitize/wash your hands often.

 

Fire Safety

Many seniors like to cook for their families during the holidays.  You may have some wonderful traditional recipes, but unattended cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires that occur during holiday time.

Always have a lid handy to smother flames in a pan should it catch fire, and baking soda for grease fires.  However, it’s best to keep an eye on food that is cooking at all times, and ensure that all knobs on your stove and oven are in the “off” position when you are done.

Ensure that your smoke and CO detectors are in working order.

Always have a fire extinguisher and an emergency plan of action in case of fire, along with an escape plan.

 

Personal Health

During the holidays, you should always be mindful of your health, how you feel, and listen to your body first.  Prevent accidents from occurring by being aware of what you are eating, how tired you are, your physical and mental state, and how much sleep you are getting.  A holiday gathering can create a sense of nostalgia, but also melancholy.  Ask someone for help if you need it.

Hydration & Rest

The holidays are full of excitement, anticipation and sometimes confusion.  When you are fatigued from a change in routine, you are vulnerable to falling, and may develop a weakened immune system.  So remember to rest when you need to, and stay hydrated.  Health experts recommend that you drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.  Water is central to your health, and if you have an alcoholic drink, you need to replenish with an additional glass of water for every alcoholic beverage.

Follow Dietary Guidelines

Most people overeat, overindulge on tasty treats, and don’t get enough exercise over the holidays.  If that eating pattern continues, it can affect heart health, and can put you at risk for type 2 diabetes and inflammatory disease.

Eat meaningful food, monitor and modify portion sizes and food types to ensure that it follows Health Canada’s dietary guidelines to keep you healthy.  Be selective in the food you choose, ensure that ½ of your plate is vegetables, ¼ is made up of high fibre carbohydrates, and ¼ plate of lean protein.

Drink one glass of water before you start your meal, and eat slowly to allow your stomach to become accustomed to all the wonderful flavours that is filling it.  The slower you eat, the more your body will appreciate it, and you won’t feel over-stuffed.  All in moderation.

 

Travel

If you plan on travelling, observe COVID recommendations and keep hand sanitizer readily available.  Take your medications with you to ensure that you take them at your usual time.  With the excitement of the holidays and celebrating with loved ones, it is easy to miss a dose.

Once you arrive back home, spend some time rejuvenating and much needed time on yourself.  Ease sore muscles in a relaxing or therapeutic bathtub soak with some essential oils.  Do you have trouble stepping over the tub?  Check out ComfortSeries™ for safety and accessibility.

 

Snow Safety

Do you shovel your own walkway, or are you able to hire someone to help you out?  If you do it yourself, make sure you do some stretching first before properly dressing for the weather; prevent frostbite by covering any exposed skin, and layer your clothing like the Scouts do.  Don’t overdo it; work in small increments at a time.  If it is or becomes too overwhelming, ask a neighbour to snow-blow or help you shovel.  Many communities offer Snow Angels programs, where volunteers remove snow for seniors and people with disabilities.  Call your municipality to inquire.

 

As you prepare for this holiday season, remember these Holiday Safety Tips and be sure to pass them on to your friends.  You don’t have to be an older adult to observe safe practices and prevent falling.  Safety is for everyone!