Preparing for winter and lowering your risk of falls
The first major snowfall in Calgary at the end of last month was a not-so-gentle reminder that winter is definitely setting in. As a city, of course, Calgary is well prepared for the coming months, and the inevitable travel disruption it can bring.
As a spokesman for City of Calgary Mobility said to CBC:
“We’ve been preparing for this for at least a few weeks now. We have crews getting their equipment ready, they’re getting the work plans ready, they’re applying anti-icing and materials to those trouble spots like bridges and hills and intersections.”
The rising statistics on falls
When winter sets in, many of us who have limited mobility need extra help with some of the daily essentials, from sidewalk snow clearance to everyday shopping. When we do venture out, slippery snow and ice can increase the risk factor of slips and fall for all Calgary residents, but especially seniors.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, in 2021 falls accounted for:
- 85% of seniors’ injury-related hospitalizations
- 95% of all hip fractures
- $2 billion a year in direct healthcare costs
- 50% of all falls causing hospitalization happen at home
In addition, 30% of seniors who are admitted to hospital after a fall are then admitted to long-term care. The average senior admitted for a fall stays in hospital 10 days longer than from any other cause.
Preventing falls in winter weather
At Vytality at Home, we can offer a whole range of practical services to help you live independently for longer in your own home. We take a holistic approach to our home care visits, allowing not just for the ‘necessaries’ but also for companionship, engagement and more. This also extends to partner services that we can organize on your behalf, and that includes regular snow clearance.
Our partners can come and clear snow from your section of sidewalk, your driveway, and around your home, including steps, ramps and other access points. They are hand-picked by us for aspects of their service, including reliability, friendly approach, understanding of senior mobility issues and cost-effective pricing. All you need to do is call us and we’ll organize it all for you!
The same applies to transport. Our carers can book transport that’s appropriate for your mobility needs, and if required accompany you to medical appointments and social events.
Shopping and slipping
Shopping for groceries is always a little more difficult in winter, especially negotiating open air parking lots with bags / trolleys of food. At Vytality at Home, we can arrange home grocery deliveries for you, and also be there to help unpack it and put it away. It’s just one way of making life easier for those with limited mobility – or even limited time available!
Home care and bad weather
We’re proud to say that whatever the weather, our home care team will always make home care for you and your loved ones our top priority. We have measures in place to ensure the continuity and reliability of visits in even the worst weather. If you have any concerns, just contact the office team to discuss; we’re happy to help.
