Springtime brings a breath of fresh air and a renewed sense of vitality to seniors across Central Iowa. As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it's a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and embrace the beauty of the season. It is also essential for older adults to prioritize safety during this delightful period. In this Senior Helpers Central Iowa blog post, we will discuss vital springtime safety tips for seniors.
Common Springtime Injuries and Accidents for Seniors
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Slips and Trips on Wet Surfaces
Spring showers might bring flowers, but they also leave slippery surfaces in their wake. To prevent slips and trips, seniors should consider investing in a pair of non-slip shoes for added traction. Exercise caution when walking on wet surfaces including sidewalks, patios, or grassy areas and slow down and pay attention to your footing.
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Falls From Ladders During Outdoor Maintenance
Seniors often feel motivated to spruce up their homes by cleaning gutters or trimming trees as the weather warms up. Unfortunately, these tasks often require the use of ladders which can lead to dangerous falls. Before attempting any task that requires a ladder, evaluate whether it's safe for you to do so. If not, consider hiring professional help. If you still decide to use a ladder, be careful to follow proper safety measures like keeping three points of contact and having a spotter.
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Gardening Injuries
Gardening can be a therapeutic and rewarding pastime for seniors but it's essential to use proper tools and techniques to avoid strain or overexertion. Ergonomic gardening tools can help reduce stress on joints and muscles. Remember to take breaks and pace yourself while gardening to avoid overworking your body.
How To Reduce Allergy Symptoms
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Take Allergy Medication Early
Allergies can be a significant nuisance during springtime, especially for seniors who love spending time outdoors. To minimize allergy symptoms, consult with your doctor to identify the best allergy medications for your needs. Begin taking these medications before allergy season starts as this can help reduce the severity of your symptoms.
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Wear Protective Clothing When Outdoors
Wearing long sleeves, pants, and a hat helps protect your skin from pollen and reduces allergy symptoms. Sunglasses can shield your eyes from irritating airborne pollen. By dressing appropriately, seniors can better enjoy their time spent outdoors during spring.
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Avoid Pollen-filled Areas
While it might be tempting to spend all day outside during peak pollen times, this can exacerbate allergy symptoms. Try to stay indoors when pollen counts are highest. This occurs typically during the early morning and evening hours. Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your home and consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to further alleviate allergy symptoms.
Staying Hydrated in Springtime
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Importance of Hydration for Seniors
Proper hydration is crucial for seniors year-round but is especially important during the warmer spring months. Dehydration can exacerbate existing health issues and make seniors more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Seniors are also at higher risk for dehydration due to age-related changes like decreased thirst sensation and reduced kidney function.
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Tips for Staying Hydrated
To stay sufficiently hydrated, seniors should plan to drink water regularly throughout the day even if they don't feel thirsty. Carrying a reusable water bottle when outdoors makes it easier to remember to stay hydrated. It is also helpful to include water-rich fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries, into your diet to provide extra hydration.
Senior Helpers Helps Seniors Enjoy a Safe and Healthy Springtime
Senior Helpers is your number one in-home senior care service. We offer specialized and companion care from the comfort of your own home so you and your loved ones can get the peace of mind you deserve. We make sure seniors in Central Iowa can enjoy a safe and healthy springtime. If you or a loved one in Urbandale, Ankeny, Ames, Des Moines, Boone, or Johnston need assistance with staying safe and healthy this spring, contact Senior Helpers Central Iowa for professional and compassionate care.