CHAT News File Photo

By Chris Brown

Walk with the mayor to mark Seniors’ Week

Jun 7, 2023 | 9:36 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Local residents are invited for a one-hour walk with Medicine Hat Mayor Linnsie Clark on Friday to help mark Seniors’ Week in the city.

The event is a partnership between Alberta Health Services, the Unison at Veiner Centre and community partners. The walk will start at 10 a.m. at the Veiner Centre. Free coffee and muffins will be served after the walk.

Seniors’ Week runs from June 5-11, educating people on how seniors can stay safe, healthy and independent by promoting healthy activity to reduce falls.

Falls are the leading cause of injury in seniors. In 2020 falls among Albertans 65 years and older resulted in more than 34,000 visits to an emergency department or urgent care centre and more than 11,000 hospitalizations.

AHS says the following actions can help seniors avoid falls:

WHAT'S ON

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IN THE COMMUNITY

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HOLIDAYS

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Keep active to maintain strength and balance:

• Regular physical activity can help prevent injury and enhance independence, improving overall quality of life
• Do activities that challenge strength, balance, endurance and flexibility
• For those with limitations, discuss strategies for staying Active With Limited Mobility
• Use supportive footwear
• Consider staying active with a friend/exercise partner for safety and socialization
• Prevent heat-related illness by protecting yourself from the sun and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid strenuous activity during hot, humid hours of the day. Find more information on preventing heat-related illnesses at MyHealth.Alberta.ca
• Talk to a healthcare provider before beginning a new physical activity

Check your vision and ensure you have a complete annual eye exam:

• Allow eyes time to adjust to light and to pay attention to surroundings to help prevent falls.
• Changes to vision may increase the risk of falling. Alberta Health Care covers the cost of an annual eye exam for adults aged 65 and older. Some seniors may also be eligible for limited reimbursement for prescription eyeglasses. See Vision Care for Seniors

Review your medications annually with a doctor or pharmacist:

• Ask questions about side effects, interactions, and proper dosing when starting a new medication New Medicines: Questions to Ask the Doctor
• Some medications can increase the risk of falling. See Review Your Medications
• Keep a Master List of Medicines at home and with you when you go out .
• Speak with your doctor if you experience dizziness and learn about managing blood pressure by reviewing Manage Your Blood Pressure

Reduce falls in the home:

• Keep floors and pathways clear of furniture, cords and clutter
• Remove items you can trip over
• Move furniture and electrical cords out of walking paths
• Keep your home well lit
• Remove scatter rugs and mats. Use non-slip mats on slippery surfaces such as bathroom floors and entranceways
• If you use a cane, replace the rubber tip when it becomes worn
• Ensure you have sturdy handrails along stairways