Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for your aging adult. Before she starts a walking program, be sure to talk to her doctor about whether it’s right for her. From there, you’ll need to follow some safety tips.
Homecare in Montclair CA: Senior Walking Tips
Always Look Both Ways Before Leaving the Curb
Before your senior even leaves the curb to cross the street, she needs to look both ways at least twice. This gives her a chance to see what might be approaching from each direction. As she crosses, she should look behind her at least a couple of times so that she’s aware of anything approaching her.
Be Alert for Traffic and Pedestrian Lights
Your elderly family member needs to be aware of both traffic signals and pedestrian signals. The pedestrian signals are most important because she’s on foot, but she can’t ignore traffic signals. These let her know what the drivers around her are supposed to be doing so that she can make the right choices.
A Right of Way Doesn’t Automatically Mean it’s Clear
There may be situations in which your senior has the right of way as the pedestrian, especially in parking lots or when pedestrian signals tell her to go ahead. The problem is that her having the right of way doesn’t mean that drivers are going to stick to that. Since cars are bigger, it’s best to yield right of way if there’s a conflict.
Don’t Start Walking if the “Don’t Walk” Signal Is Lit
It might seem to be common sense, but if the “Don’t Walk” signal is lit up, your senior shouldn’t start crossing, even if there are no cars visible. Your senior might feel confused about whether she should stop if the “Don’t Walk” signal lights up when she’s in the middle of the crossing. In that case, she needs to keep going and be mindful of what other traffic is doing.
Use the Buddy System
Having a buddy while walking is always a good idea, but for your elderly family member, it can mean that she’s much safer while she’s out and about. If you or her friends can’t walk with her, consider hiring elder care providers who can be her walking buddies. They can also help her with other tasks and needs while providing companionship.
If your elderly family member uses assistive devices, make sure that they’re fitted properly and that she’s able to walk on all sorts of surfaces safely with them. Remember also to check the tips of canes and walkers as well as wheels on any wheeled devices.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Homecare in Montclair, CA, contact the caring staff at No Place Like Home Homecare today at 951-382-5266.
About Kristi Duran
Kristi Duran is the owner of No Place Like Home Homecare. Kristi started NPLH because of her absolute love for seniors. She was raised by her grandparents from the day she was born. Kristi has a special connection to seniors and understands their wishes and needs to stay independent.
Kristi has worked in the medical field for years and has seen first-hand how aging seniors want nothing more than to age in the comfort of their own home with dignity and grace. At NPLH, she and her caregivers insure that this happens.
NPLH is not a large franchise. It is a personal family owned homecare service. This insures a one on one personalized touch. Kristi is available 24 hours a day to her clients and their families.
