Senior to Senior: Walking Safely

Now that you have developed the “walking habit” you have joined a pretty elite group. You may have reached the point where you feel guilty if something or someone makes you miss a day. This is a good thing; it means that you are taking your health and well-being seriously. You’ve made a big commitment and you have every right to be proud of yourself. We’ve stressed self-motivation and technique already, but now it is time to touch on something else; personal safety. You may want to expand your route to three blocks instead of two, or to include a cul-de-sac or a neighborhood park. This means you will be getting further and further from home. Don’t forget to factor your sense of direction into the equation. You always want to know where you are and how to get back home. If you are “directionally challenged” (we’ve talked about this before, and it doesn’t have anything to do with your age), but if asking for directions makes you feel “old” or “foolish”, you might want to have a GPS Tracker on your person. If your skills don’t extend that far, ask someone to walk with you until you recognize all of the landmarks. Tell a family member or friend that you are going for your walk and where you are going. Wear a little fanny pack with your name, address, and contact information in it. Carry a cell phone and/or a medic alert bracelet and don’t be afraid to use them. There is always the possibility of a twisted ankle or heaven forbid, an episode of chest pain. Dress in comfortable bright colored clothing. This is not the time for gray sweats. You want to be seen. A bright orange vest with reflectors may not be a fashion statement but everyone will see you. Safety first. Walk during the day and chose highly traveled areas. Sidewalks or designated walking paths are the preferred places to walk. If you use headphones keep the volume down so you can hear what is going on around you. Be alert, be safe, and keep on walking.