Senior Citizens Walking Dogs Safely
Many senior citizens choose to get a dog after their children become adults and move out, aiming to add joy to their lives and increase their opportunities for exercise through dog walking.
Although walking a dog is beneficial to physical health, falls and injuries among the elderly while walking their dogs are quite common. Therefore, seniors must be careful before taking their dogs out for a walk.
It is well known that elderly people fear falling the most because aging leads to the deterioration of bones and muscles, and falls often cause sprains, fractures, or even fatal outcomes.
Therefore, the author offers three suggestions for elderly people walking their dogs:
1. Health Precautions for Elderly When Walking Dogs
Checking blood pressure and body temperature—is crucial because conditions such as hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and dizziness are all potential risk factors that may cause elderly people to fall unexpectedly.
Therefore, it is recommended that seniors with chronic illnesses measure their blood pressure and body temperature before walking their dogs. Even if the measurements fall within the normal range, if they experience any physical discomfort, they should stay home and rest. Taking the dog out in such a situation could be very dangerous.
2. Hydration Tips for Elderly Dog Walkers
When walking a dog, although it is a slow-paced exercise, it still results in a significant loss of water.
Older adults often forget to drink water because they do not feel thirsty, which makes them prone to dehydration and dizziness during exercise.
Therefore, it is recommended that seniors carry a water bottle with them while walking their dogs and replenish fluids regularly.
3. Safety Equipment for Elderly Dog Walkers
Safety equipment are crucial for elderly dog walkers. Since seniors often have reduced grip strength, situations like a dog suddenly lunging can easily cause them to trip or slip.
Therefore, it is recommended that seniors wear comfortable, non-slip shoes when walking their dogs. Additionally, the leash should be made of sturdy, easy-to-grip material to ensure better control and safety during walks.
Walking Dogs for Seniors
Although seniors walking dogs can help maintain muscle strength and cardiovascular health, it is important to assess one's own abilities and take appropriate fall prevention measures. Only then can they truly enjoy leisurely walks with their beloved dogs.
