5 Tips for Senior Mobility in Public
Senior mobility is something that can take many forms, but really it just comes down to someone’s individual safety and freedom to live their lives. Whether that means maintaining an active social life or just getting out into the community safely, all older adults will eventually consider just what goes into staying mobile. With the goal being maximum independence, we’ll take a look at how seniors can stay safe and mobile in public settings.
1. Plan Your Route
Like what planning your day at any age entails, seniors first need to consider their route and how they can best get to their destination. Sure, you may be going somewhere you’ve been a million times, but that doesn’t mean there will never be any obstacles on the way. Looking ahead using things like Google Maps or GPS services on your smartphone (before driving, of course) can help you avoid things like accidents or roadwork in order to reach your destination efficiently. Still, if you plan on walking somewhere local, it can be helpful to preload your destination or review the directions beforehand. This can help to avoid any difficult terrain or even questionable neighborhoods in order to arrive safely.
2. Wear the Appropriate Clothing
Next, dress for your route and the destination you’re headed to. Footwear needs to be a top priority, ensuring that you can always keep a firm step and avoid any potential mishaps like falls or other injuries. If those sneakers don’t fit in with your Sunday best, just pack what you’ll need once you arrive. It’s also very important to wear the right clothing for whatever weather conditions you’ll come up against. Overheating or shivering on your route is no way to go about your day! As you probably know, a trusty umbrella will also always come in handy. Other items like sun hats and sun glasses are also great travel companions!
3. Find Public Transit Options
Consider that not everyone is within walking distance to most of the places they need to go, consider what methods of public transportation are available in your area. Taking the bus can be a very cheap way to get around, however, more rural areas may struggle to provide the type of transportation you need. Today, more and more seniors are turning to ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to help them get around. These services have been praised by many as a new, more efficient way to move about your city or town. This can be done by downloading a simple smartphone app and setting up your account.
4. Pack Your Medications
Though you may be leading a routine similar to your younger years, most seniors find their pace slows a bit to keep things running smoothly. That means you’ll need to prepare for the scenarios in which you’re out and about a bit later than originally predicted. Packing your medications in a waterproof and easily identifiable container can be a good call, especially for those which need to be taken throughout the day. Adding some healthy snacks to your travel bag can also be useful for those medicines that require food to avoid nausea. It also never hurts to have an extra bottle of water to stay hydrated at all times!
5. Ask for Help if Needed
Finally, something not to be overlooked is to ask for assistance if you need it. Of course, this requires your best judgment in who you approach for help, but if you suddenly need someone’s help while in a public setting you’ll hopefully find individuals willing to do so. It is difficult to find a culture that doesn’t respect its elders, despite how it may feel sometimes. Asking for assistance, even if that means opening a door or help with boarding a bus can make all the difference and many people will help without question. Again, use your best judgment, but don’t be afraid to reach out when needed!
Whatever your situation may be, we hope these considerations can help you to maintain as much independence and mobility in public as a senior. Although everyone is different, prioritizing your own safety and needs is something you don’t have to skimp on. Check out these resources regarding senior mobility or check out our blog to stay up-to-date on the latest in all things SeniorCaring!
