Wintertime stroke alert
Winter brings with it more than just cold weather—freezing temperatures can raise blood pressure, which may lead to an increased chance of stroke. Elderly people are especially vulnerable to this kind of risk. Check out these helpful ways to keep warm this winter and decrease your chance of having a stroke:
- Preserve heat in the commonly used rooms by closing curtains and doors. The ideal room temperature is 18–21°C.
- Have your blood pressure checked. If it’s high, visit your doctor.
- Eat regular hot meals that are low in salt and saturated fat, and drink hot beverages throughout the day.
- Get moving—exercise can lower your blood pressure and improve circulation. Wear appropriate clothing such as a hat, scarf, gloves and warm footwear if you go outside.
Source: www.medicalnewstoday.com
“Grandchild-proof” your home
Having little ones around again can be fun, but be sure it’s safe before they come to your house.
- Look up new safety regulations. Toy regulations are stricter now so read labels to ensure toys are age-appropriate. Scrutinize older toys carefully—make sure they don’t contain any choking hazards or sharp or brittle edges.
- Beware of outdated equipment. Designs and safety standards are continually changing to better protect children. Even if a car seat was state-of-the-art 10 years ago, today’s models will be safer.
- Identify problem areas in your home. Today’s homes contain exercise equipment, hot tubs, home offices with computers and other potentially hazardous furnishings. It’s good to designate a “kid friendly” section of your home (such as the living room), move dangerous items or simply lock some rooms.
- Ask your children. Remember that they’ve just been through the same process in their own homes.
Source: www.aginginstride.enewsworks.com
Tags: family, grandchildren, information, memories, safety, staying warm, stroke, weather safety
