Safety, safety, safety by Lisa

With June being National Safety Month, I’d like to bring attention some safety issues. While it’s important to always strive to be safe, the top issues the National Safety Council address are:

• Preventing prescription drug abuse
• Stopping slips, trips, and falls
• Being aware of surroundings
• Ending distracted driving
• Safety in the summer months

More than 6 million Americans abuse drugs with narcotic pain medications being the most commonly abused prescription. It is important to keep track of the prescriptions in your home. Periodically, count the medication remaining in the container and make sure it’s the correct amount. Once the condition the prescription was being used to treat is treated, properly dispose of anything remaining of the prescription.

Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. Talking with your doctor about your medications, history of falls, and health conditions that could cause a fall could help in avoiding future falls. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy, occupational therapy, and possibly using a cane or a walker. Physical activity can go a long way in helping to prevent falls as long as it is approved by your doctor. Physical activity helps to improve strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility. Wear properly fitted sturdy shoes with nonskid soles. Remove any hazards in the home. This include items such as boxes, newspapers, cords, and coffee tables. Secure loose rugs and repair loose floorboards. Store items that need to be accessed frequently in easy to reach locations. Immediately clean spills. Use nonslip mats in the shower or bathtub. Keep your home brightly lit. Consider installing hand rails in the stairways, nonslip treads for bare wood steps, raised toilet seat with armrests, grab bars and a sturdy seat for the shower or bathtub.

To become more aware of your surroundings it is important to keep your mind active. Do mental exercise. Incorporate some quiet time into your life. Get plenty of sleep. Another benefit to exercising is that it gives you more awareness. Stay hydrated.

To end distracted driving, keep loose items in a secure place. Make sure your GPS, mirrors, seats, and air conditioning and heat are set before driving. Don’t eat or use the phone while driving. Pull over if necessary.

In the summer, make sure you wear an insect repellant and tip over and change water from bird feeders and fountains to keep bugs away. When grilling, be sure to wash your hands, cutting boards, and dishes, and utensils with hot, soapy water. Cook the food at a high enough temperature to kill bacteria. Refrigerate leftovers immediately. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside. Use sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA protection. Again, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink 2-4 glasses of cool, non-alcoholic fluids per hour. Avoid any strenuous activity during extremely hot days. Direct sun exposure between 10AM-4PM should be avoided, if possible.

Investing in your safety is investing in your independence.