Fresh air and sunshine are beneficial to your mental health and overall mood, and seniors often benefit from time spent outdoors. That said, sidewalks can be slippery and difficult to navigate in winter and throughout the springtime, making it harder for seniors to safely enjoy an afternoon walk. A fall can be quite serious, particularly for older individuals, and many seniors stay indoors to avoid this risk.
We’re all for getting outside for healthy movement and the enjoyment of nature, and there are some simple ways to make outdoor walks safer for seniors. Here are some easy, actionable tips—if you have any questions or are interested in learning more about homecare services in the Toronto area, please contact us! We’d be pleased to answer your questions and offer a personalized quote.
Plan your route
Start by identifying safe places to walk in your neighbourhood (or within a short driving distance). There may be a park with a paved walking path that’s maintained well (snow removed and salted as needed, or a nearby street that’s flat and pleasant to walk along. You can also look for a high school track loop or paved/gravel paths around a local community centre. For example, many local community spaces and libraries have greenspaces with a series of walkways that are ideal for walking along. If they’re free from ice, they’re a great option!
If you’re willing to venture farther out, you may want to consider local conservation areas. While some have uneven hiking or cycling trails that aren’t well suited to seniors, others have flat, man-made walking paths or boardwalks that are easily accessible. The scenery in these locations is quite beautiful, too!
Dress appropriately
It’s important to dress comfortably for the weather—consider layers of breathable clothing that can be added or removed as needed, plus a waterproof jacket that helps keep the chill out. Perhaps even more importantly, shoes with a great tread are a must. Consider a pull-on option like Blundstones or a great weatherproof walking shoes from Cougar. For example, this winter sneaker option has a thick tread, waterproofing and a zipper instead of laces. This more summery version is also good for spring weather. On sunny days, consider a wide-brimmed hat on sunglasses to minimize glare. Don’t forget to bring a small water bottle along if you’ll be out for a while!
Consider mobility assistance
Many seniors can easily navigate their own homes and other familiar spaces, but they may benefit from mobility assistance when walking outdoors or for extended periods of time. Ask your aging relatives to consider a cane or walker when going outdoors for a stroll around the block. This may help prevent falls on uneven ground, when stepping up or down from curbs, or when encountering unforeseen challenges like ice or damaged concrete. And, if your loved one isn’t receptive to this suggestion, there’s an easy solution: offer them an arm to hold as you enjoy a walk together. Our caregivers often do this with clients as well. Thanks for reading and here’s to spring—it will be here before we know it!