Autumn can be a wonderful time for everyone to be more active.  Not too hot, not too cold and lower risk for the very exciting thunderstorms of the earlier part of the summer.  It is important to keep in mind that a change of season can also mean a change in safety strategy for those that we are providing care to.

1. Dress in layers. As we get older, our ability to regulate our body temperature can get a bit trickier.  Hypothermia can happen in outdoor temperatures of 10 degrees Celsius or below.  It is important to dress in layers, so that a layer can be put on or removed as we get too hot or too cold.
2. Time for yard cleanup.  Autumn leaves are some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery throughout the whole year.  When leaves fall, they decompose and get really slippery.  It’s a good idea to make sure that all of the leaves and branches are swept away from walkways to reduce slip and fall accidents.  You may also want to check sidewalks and walkways to make sure that they are even and in shoveling condition for when the snow falls.
3. Hello darkness my old friend… Night time comes a lot earlier here in the north.  It’s time to check and make sure that all exterior lighting is in good operating condition.  Light it up!
4. Autumn Driving.  Time to get the fluids checked and get those snow tires scheduled.  You might not need to change everything over just yet, but save some dates on your calendar to get this taken care of.  If you have an aging adult driver in your life, now is the time to have a casual conversation about getting all of the errands done while it is still light outside, and ensuring that all emergency safety equipment in the trunk has been checked for the season.
5. Home Check.  Heating, cooling, electrical, water, gas, sewer/septic, gutters, duct-work, railings, banisters.  The list is a long one, but when we live in Alberta where the winters are long, being prepared is being safe!
6. Fire Safety.  Not being able to regulate body temperature means that we are cold all the time.  Space heaters and fireplaces are common during the fall and winter months.  Carbon monoxide detectors are a must.  Make sure that all space heaters are in good working order with no frayed cords.  Also ensure that there is nothing flammable placed near the space heater.  We like electric blankets!  All the warmth with less safety risk.
7. It’s flu season. Seniors are susceptible to complications from the flu.  Flu can also make other health problems worse.  It is recommended that anyone over the age of 65 should have an annual flu vaccination, ideally before the end of October.

Pre-planning and organization can help us keep ourselves and our loved ones safer through this seasonal change ahead.

We would love to hear some of your tips and tricks for the season as well.  Please feel free to leave your comments below.