Top Tips: Outdoor Safety Tips for Seniors
For older people, venturing outside offers not only physical benefits but also a chance to connect with nature and rejuvenate the spirit.
At Myley, we know that safety always remains paramount when venturing outdoors, so we have compiled some essential Top Tips for outdoor safety for caregivers accompanying seniors:
1. Assess Outdoor Conditions:
Myley took Lovell Place on a picnic recently and their Wellbeing Coach Selina Adams said, ‘It was lovely to be out in the fresh air & amongst the wildlife. We had 2 new residents with us & it was a great opportunity for them to meet & socialise with other residents in a different environment.’
Monitor the weather and avoid extreme heat or harsh sunlight.
Consider scheduling outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, such as mornings or evenings.
Plan activities that are suitable for the individual's physical abilities and interests.
2. Manage Medications:
‘[Medication] can increase your sensitivity to heat in a few ways. Some can affect your body’s ability to regulate its own temperature or limit your ability to perceive how hot you’re getting, so you might not realise you’re overheating,’ (source)
Help seniors stay consistent with their medication schedule.
Be aware of medications that may interact with heat and advise consulting healthcare providers for guidance.
3. Ensure Hydration:
‘Being dehydrated can have serious health implications in the elderly and those with Dementia. It can increase UTI’s (Urinary Tract Infections), impair our thinking, change our mood, cause dizziness and can increase the instances of falls. Sometimes dehydration can lead to hospitalisation and decrease the effective function of organs in the body such as the kidneys.’ (Age UK)
Encourage seniors to carry water bottles and drink regularly, particularly in hot weather.
Educate them on the importance of staying hydrated, even if they don't feel thirsty.
4. Guard Against Sun Overexposure:
‘Older people and those with underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of hot weather. This means that people living in all kinds of care homes, those who are unable to care for themselves or those who require support in their daily activities are at higher risk of becoming unwell,’ (gov.uk)
Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply as directed.
Equip seniors with hats and sunglasses to shield their faces and eyes from the sun's rays.
5. Plan Ahead for Emergencies:
Ensure you carry identification with emergency contact information.
Familiarise yourself with the location's emergency procedures.
Take note of the nearest medical facilities to your location.
6. Promote Safe Walking Practices:
Myley Tour Leader Alan took guests of Wilmslow Manor to Avenham and Miller Park, ‘A lovely walk around the park which included a picnic on a long bench in the sunshine. Residents loved it.’
Choose outdoor routes that are well-lit and populated by other people.
Ensure seniors wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
In busy areas, emphasise crossing at designated spots and following traffic signals.
In rural settings, encourage walking during daylight hours on well-used paths while remaining vigilant.
By following these outdoor safety tips, we can help seniors enjoy nature while minimising risks to their health and well-being.