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Accessibility, Safety, and Health: Home Survival Tips for The Elderly

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Accessibility, safety, and health: home survival tips for the elderly

As we progress through life, we must take into consideration our ageing body and mind. Let’s be honest, no-one wants to think about it, but as we get older, especially into retirement and beyond, what we eat and the activities we choose to keep us busy really matter. From simply walking through the park or on the footpath, to diet and preventing possibly damaging conditions such as stroke and heat exhaustion.

Below are some pointers on how to live the best and longest life you can after you retire.

Exercise

To begin with something simple, walking is an activity all of us undertake on a daily basis and it is extremely important to maintain a base level of health. Https://www.upliftingmobility.com recommends Following different paths up and down hills, or in various terrain is great for all ages, however, it can pose a risk to elderly people most of all, if no caution is taken.

To avoid a possible fall, the best thing to do is make the most of your time outdoors when the sun is shining and there is no rain because as you can imagine, rain poses a slipping hazard.

It is also important, especially for the elderly, to avoid windy conditions as this will make it difficult to walk and you run the risk of a fall, as well as possibly getting sick. Another no-brainer is to wear adequate footwear. Ideally, your shoes will have a non-slip base and are specifically designed for walking by maintaining support for your ankles.

Read: Light Exercises for Staying Healthy When We Are Older

If need be, carry a walking aid. Even if you think you do not need one, take one just in case of the odd event that you may need it. Some extra handy tips for walking are to stick to familiar paths, eat before you embark on your journey, bring along a water bottle and wear sufficient sun protection.

Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

On the topic of sun protection, if you are in the summer months, you need to make sure you take preventative measures to ensure you do not suffer from heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Many recent studies have shown that people over 65 are more susceptible to the heat, and more likely to be stuck with heat stroke or exhaustion.

The following steps to aid against these conditions should be practiced all year round so that when the sun does hit, you are well prepared. First of all, you must remain hydrated.

Even though it is important to maintain hydration all year round, it is most important to drink plenty of water when it is hot even when you may not feel the need for a drink. Next, wear adequate clothing, contrary to most beliefs, avoid the use of cotton as it will soak up the sweat and maintain moisture against the skin. If it is possible, wear quick-dry and moisture-friendly clothing. You can just simply stay inside if you have nowhere to go.

Whilst there is still a risk of a trip, it is highly unlikely compared to if you were outside, an added benefit is that you are shaded from the sun and you can turn the air conditioning on if need be. One very important factor to prevent a stroke especially is to stress-less and take it easy.

For some, this is very difficult to remain this way, however over-time, evidence has suggested that this is the cause of many strokes. Being able to chill-out and decrease vigorous activities will go a very long way to counteracting the onset of a stroke or heat exhaustion.

One aspect which is highly recommended to all elderly people is to be acutely aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion or stroke.

For heat exhaustion these include:

  • Tiredness
  • Sweating
  • Weakness
  • Nausea/Vomiting
  • Fainting
  • Irregular pulse or heartbeat
  • Irregular breathing
  • Muscle cramps

Stroke:

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Hot, dry and red skin
  • Very fast pulse
  • Very high body temperature (above 39C)

What you eat

Finally, diet. The foods we consume are relevant to everyone, and not just the elderly. It could shape who we are physically and mentally, which is why it is critical to adhere to strict rules. It must be said, however, that dietary requirements vary from teenagers, to middle-aged and elderly.

Vitamins and minerals must be on the top of the food list as we get older and studies have shown calcium, vitamin D, fibre, potassium, vitamin B12 and healthy fats are lacking in the modern day elderly persons’ diet and should be the first to be addressed by the fruit and vegetables we buy from the supermarket.

By following the above steps, you will ensure that you live a longer, happier and less stressful life. You will be able to spend your time with your family and friends who you have met along your journey, whilst also setting a good example to the younger generation about how to live a wonderful life, and the steps involved to do so.

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