5 Holiday Safety Tips for Seniors
The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year! It’s the season for fun festivities, giving gifts, delicious feasts, and spending time with those you love. Unfortunately, the holidays can also pose unique safety risks to Southlake seniors, including falls and burglaries.
Seniors should still enjoy the holidays to the fullest while playing it safe.
5 Helpful Holiday Safety Tips for Southlake Seniors
Use these five simple safety tips to protect yourself this holiday season and all year long.
1. Keep Holiday Decorations and Extension Cords Off the Floor
Many seniors love decorating their homes for the holiday season. However, excess floor décor can pose tripping hazards, especially in areas with high foot traffic. Additionally, extension cords that you use to light holiday decorations can also increase your risk of slips, trips, and falls.
Older adults should keep decorations off the floor as much as possible, including trinkets, gifts, and Christmas tree skirts. They should also run extension cords along walls or—even better—off the ground entirely.
2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Shopping malls are often packed with holiday shoppers this time of year. Seniors should aim to shop during off-peak hours, such as weekday afternoons or early mornings. This also allows you to skip driving home in the dark.
Pay close attention to your surroundings when in a crowded store or shopping center, such as Southlake Town Square or Shops of Southlake. Park your car in a well-lit area of the parking lot and ensure your wallet is in an inside coat pocket or your purse is zipped close. This prevents pick-pocketers from having easy access to your credit cards and cash. You should also have the same awareness at busy community holiday events, like parades or Christmas tree lightings.
3. Choose Healthier Alternatives
The holidays are a time for indulgence, especially when it comes to food. Health-conscious seniors can benefit from choosing healthier alternatives for their holiday feasts. For instance, try mashed cauliflower or sweet potatoes instead of boxed mashed potatoes. Substitute the pie and ice cream for fresh fruits or vegan cookies. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water to stay properly hydrated!
4. Be a Safe Driver
While Southlake, TX, is known for its mild winters, seniors should still practice safe driving habits while out and about. Take your car to a certified mechanic to have your oil changed and your tires checked for proper air pressure. While driving, never speed and always maintain a safe following distance behind the car in front of you.
5. Use Battery Operated Candles
Traditional candles can be a fire hazard. Instead, use festive, flameless battery-operated candles. You can leave them on all night without worrying about your safety.
Visiting Angels of Southlake, TX, Keeps Seniors Safe During the Holidays
Visiting Angels of Southlake, TX, proudly serves older adults throughout Southlake and the surrounding areas. Our in-home caregivers can help keep you safe by cleaning up clutter, cooking healthy meals, and providing reliable transportation to your favorite stores.
Contact us today at (817) 684-1996 for more information.