It’s a great time to think about safety. As warmer weather lures us outdoors, let’s take the right precautions for our favorite outdoor activities. June is National Safety Month, and the National Safety Council recommends that we pay close attention to unintentional injuries.
According to the NSC, unintentional injuries cause 120,000 deaths per year, or 67 percent of all injury deaths. Injuries of all kinds are the leading cause of disability for all ages. Just three kinds of accidents account for most of that total. Accidental poisoning takes the biggest toll, followed by automobile crashes and falls.
For outdoor activities like gardening, walking or bicycling, always wear suitable clothing and protective gear. Keep track of time and stay hydrated. Schedule outdoor exercise earlier in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not as strong.
Warning label
The greatest poisoning risk to seniors is taking incorrect medication. Even a small amount over the recommended dosage can lead to serious consequences. Mixing up medications can be very harmful as well. All the more reason to label every medication clearly and keep everything organized.
Pill organizers are great for planning out daily doses, making it very clear when medications have been taken.
It is also a good idea to keep a list of every medication you take and their dosages. You may be asked for this information when making a doctor’s visit or an emergency trip to the hospital. Have the information readily accessible, and be aware of what each medication is prescribed for.
Eyes on the Road
We can all practice and promote safe driving. Seniors, according to AAA, are the second most vulnerable age group (behind teenagers) to be in a deadly collision. Physical impairments – from dexterity, mobility, reactions, vision – can make driving increasingly difficult for seniors. Medications can intensify these conditions, even causing drowsiness or confusion.
With 84 percent of people over 65 having a driver’s license, according to AAA, we can never be too careful when we’re on the road.
To lessen the odds of an accident, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends proper precautions to make journeys safer and less stressful. Know the route ahead. Travel only in safe conditions. Seek regular eye exams. Exercise routinely to keep reflexes, mobility and strength as strong as possible.
Staying on your feet
Fall prevention is a top safety issue for seniors. The CDC reports that one in three people over 65 years old falls each year, making it the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for the age group. Falls can have a devastating toll on seniors, making it difficult to get around and making them more susceptible to future injuries.
The first defense against falls should be exercise. Rehabilitation and workout programs can help. Increasing balance, muscle and bone strength through and exercise program or rehabilitation can help reduce falls.
Keeping your eyes open and your legs moving should help you enjoy another safe summer.