Street Safety for Seniors

We all know that walking has many benefits. In addition to being a cheap mode of transportation, it has benefits for your health. Walking is good for your heart as well as keeping you physically fit. It is an exercise that everyone can afford.

Statistics in Canada have indicated that 37% of all pedestrian fatalities have been seniors. Seniors are at a higher risk of being hit by a vehicle mostly because their mobility and perception deteriorate, as they grow older. However, before you go home and vow to become a hermit, remember that the benefits of walking, including your independence and your social life, far outweigh the risks. Here are some common sense tips for walking anywhere.

- The first thing is to take care of yourself. Exercise, eat right, see your doctor on a regular basis and take all your medication.
- Wear shoes that are comfortable, well-fitting, have low heels, and firm soles.
- Do not be afraid to use a cane for balance. Just make sure it is adjusted to your height.
- When you walk in the winter, if necessary, wear ice grips on your shoes and use a cane with a pick.
- Do not carry any extra weight. If you are shopping, take advantage of home deliveries. Or, use a bundle cart. Another option is to ask for help.
- Leave for your excursion in plenty of time to avoid any need for hurry.
- Besides watching out for cars, keep an out for bicycles and motorcycles.
- As you walk along the sidewalk or asphalt, keep a look out for cracks and curbs.
- Try to avoid walking during rush hour, after dark, or before snow and ice have been removed from your normal pathway.
- When crossing the street, cross at a crosswalk or intersection.

As the population of Canada ages, there needs to be cooperation from the municipalities and operators of motor vehicles to ensure the safety of its senior citizens.

Municipalities can meet the needs of seniors in a variety of ways. There are areas where there is a higher concentration of seniors who walk from their homes to medical offices, stores, senior centres, and other places. The Canada Safety Council has these suggestions for municipalities.

- Extending the walking time on traffic lights to accommodate the slower pedestrians.
- Keeping the sidewalks maintained and free of obstacles, including snow and ice in the winter.
- Building curb ramps for those less mobile will also benefit those using scooter and wheelchairs.

The Canada Safety Council recommends that drivers can help with senior safety by obeying the rules of the road. For example, running red lights, disregarding stop signs, and exceeding the speed limit endanger the lives of everyone. In addition, bicyclists should try to stay off the sidewalks.

Developing an integrated plan for traffic safety that incorporates the whole community while meeting the needs of its older citizens is also a recommendation of the Canada Safety Council.