{"id":17693,"date":"2025-11-01T09:30:35","date_gmt":"2025-11-01T09:30:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/?p=17693"},"modified":"2025-11-13T18:39:01","modified_gmt":"2025-11-13T18:39:01","slug":"home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/","title":{"rendered":"Home Safety Walk-Through: Essential Fall Prevention Tips for Alberta Seniors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-vivid-cyan-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-medium-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-of-Calgary-SW-\u2014-November-2025.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-of-Calgary-SW-\u2014-November-2025.pdf noreferrer noopener\">Download Senior Fall Prevention Guide<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A safer, more confident winter starts at home, and for seniors in SW Calgary, there&#8217;s never been a better moment to rethink your space!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&#8217;re settling in after a brisk walk or welcoming family for the holidays, these <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>fall prevention strategies<\/strong><\/a> can protect independence, comfort, and peace of mind all season long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#1_Brighten_Every_Step\" title=\"1. Brighten Every Step\">1. Brighten Every Step<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#2_Clear_Floors_Equal_Clear_Paths\" title=\"2. Clear Floors Equal Clear Paths\">2. Clear Floors Equal Clear Paths<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#3_Stair_Safety_Inside_and_Out\" title=\"3. Stair Safety, Inside and Out\">3. Stair Safety, Inside and Out<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#4_Footwear_That_Prevents_Falls\" title=\"4. Footwear That Prevents Falls\">4. Footwear That Prevents Falls<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#5_Bathroom_Upgrades_for_Everyday_Confidence\" title=\"5. Bathroom Upgrades for Everyday Confidence\">5. Bathroom Upgrades for Everyday Confidence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#6_Kitchen_Ease\" title=\"6. Kitchen Ease\">6. Kitchen Ease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#7_Annual_Fall_Risk_Screening\" title=\"7. Annual Fall Risk Screening\">7. Annual Fall Risk Screening<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#8_Stay_Strong_and_Well\" title=\"8. Stay Strong and Well\">8. Stay Strong and Well<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#9_Winter-Ready_Walkways\" title=\"9. Winter-Ready Walkways\">9. Winter-Ready Walkways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#10_Safe_Heating_for_the_Season\" title=\"10. Safe Heating for the Season\">10. Safe Heating for the Season<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/home-safety-walkthrough-fall-prevention-tips-alberta-seniors\/#Ready_for_Your_Personalized_Walk-Through\" title=\"Ready for Your Personalized Walk-Through?\">Ready for Your Personalized Walk-Through?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Brighten_Every_Step\"><\/span>1. Brighten Every Step<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper lighting drastically reduces the chance of tripping over objects that might be missed in shadows. For Calgary homes that experience long winter nights, good illumination is a top priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Install Nightlights:<\/strong> Place bright, automatic nightlights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. These are especially helpful for midnight trips.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boost Bulb Wattage:<\/strong> Replace low-wattage bulbs with the highest recommended wattage for the fixture, or switch to LED bulbs for brighter, longer-lasting light.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use Three-Way Switches:<\/strong> Install switches at both the top and bottom of all <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/fall-prevention-5-ways-to-make-stairs-safer-for-the-senior-in-your-life\/\">staircases<\/a> so you never have to navigate steps in the dark.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic Placement:<\/strong> Ensure light switches are easy to reach before entering a room and that lamps are stable and their cords are tucked away.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-Blog-Graphics-2-1-1024x569.png\" alt=\"Senior getting help standing up by a caregiver.\" class=\"wp-image-17695\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-Blog-Graphics-2-1-1024x569.png 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-Blog-Graphics-2-1-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-Blog-Graphics-2-1-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/11\/ABC-Blog-Graphics-2-1.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Clear_Floors_Equal_Clear_Paths\"><\/span>2. Clear Floors Equal Clear Paths<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Addressing floor hazards is often the simplest and most effective way to prevent falls. Focus on maintaining clear, non-slip routes throughout the home, especially between the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Hazard Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Safety Action<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Recommended Product\/Tip<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Area Rugs<\/strong><\/td><td>Secure all edges and corners to the floor.<\/td><td>Use double-sided carpet tape or non-slip rubber backing.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Electrical Cords<\/strong><\/td><td>Keep them out of walking paths and away from furniture.<\/td><td>Use cord covers or cable channels secured along baseboards. Avoid running cords under rugs.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Clutter\/Mess<\/strong><\/td><td>Remove stacks of newspapers, books, or clothing from the floors.<\/td><td>Establish a daily habit of tidying high-traffic areas.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Pets\/Toys<\/strong><\/td><td>Keep pet bowls and toys in one designated area.<\/td><td>Ensure toys are put away, especially before walking at night.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Our<a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/preventing-falls-with-elder-care-services\/\"> fall prevention experts<\/a> offer tailored advice, and our support team is happy to walk through your space and build a checklist just for your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Stair_Safety_Inside_and_Out\"><\/span>3. Stair Safety, Inside and Out<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Stairs are a major fall risk, particularly when snow and ice are involved. For seniors in Calgary, paying attention to both interior and exterior steps is vital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indoor Handrails:<\/strong> Install sturdy handrails on <em>both<\/em> sides of all stairways and ensure they run the entire length of the stairs. They should be easy to grip and securely attached to the wall.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tread Security:<\/strong> Add brightly colored, anti-slip strips or special non-skid paint to the edges of interior stair treads to improve visibility and traction.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Outdoor Maintenance:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Install Secondary Rails:<\/strong> Ensure entryways have a secure grab bar or second rail, especially for steps leading to the porch or garage.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aggressive Ice Management:<\/strong> Use coarse-grained ice melt (pet-safe if necessary) on all exterior stairs and walkways immediately after precipitation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mats:<\/strong> Place a sturdy, textured, non-skid rubber mat just inside the door to catch moisture and ice, preventing wet floors inside the home.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"741\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2022\/11\/about-us-senior-and-caregiver.jpg\" alt=\"Senior and a caregiver\" class=\"wp-image-12241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2022\/11\/about-us-senior-and-caregiver.jpg 741w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2022\/11\/about-us-senior-and-caregiver-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 741px) 100vw, 741px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Footwear_That_Prevents_Falls\"><\/span>4. Footwear That Prevents Falls<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ill-fitting <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/podiatry-tips-senior-fall-prevention-autumn\/\">shoes<\/a> or walking in socks\/slippers is a leading cause of indoor falls. The goal is a shoe that provides stability, support, and excellent traction both inside and out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indoor Shoe Standards:<\/strong> Wear shoes that are closed-back, have a low heel (under 1 inch), and feature a thin, non-slip rubber sole. Avoid going barefoot or wearing floppy slippers.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Outdoor Winter Traction<\/strong>: For trips outside in Calgary, select boots with deep treads and wide soles. Consider installing ice cleats or &#8220;grippers&#8221; over regular shoes for added safety on sidewalks and driveways.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid:<\/strong> High heels, thick-soled running shoes (which can affect balance), and worn-out slippers that lack support.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Bathroom_Upgrades_for_Everyday_Confidence\"><\/span>5. Bathroom Upgrades for Everyday Confidence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The combination of wet surfaces, hard floors, and tight spaces makes the bathroom one of the most dangerous rooms for falls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Secure Grab Bars:<\/strong> Install permanent, wall-mounted grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower\/tub. <em>Avoid relying on suction-cup bars<\/em>, which can fail when weight is applied.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aids for Bathing:<\/strong> Use a shower chair or bench to conserve energy and prevent slipping while standing. A hand-held shower nozzle also makes bathing easier and safer.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flooring:<\/strong> Use a non-slip bathmat <em>with<\/em> a rubber underside and ensure all water spills are wiped up immediately after use. A raised toilet seat can also make sitting and standing easier on the knees and hips.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/07\/188-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"Seniors on a dining table with a caregiver\" class=\"wp-image-17482\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/07\/188-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/07\/188-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/07\/188-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/07\/188.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Kitchen_Ease\"><\/span>6. Kitchen Ease<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Reaching, bending, and twisting to access items can lead to a loss of balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accessible Storage:<\/strong> Keep frequently used items (plates, glasses, coffee mugs, staple foods) between waist and shoulder height. Use lower cabinets and pantries for items used less often.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid Step Stools:<\/strong> If you must use a step stool, ensure it is a sturdy, certified kitchen ladder with a handrail. Better yet, ask a family member or caregiver to help with high-up storage.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flooring Focus:<\/strong> Use an anti-fatigue mat in front of the sink for comfort, and ensure it has a non-slip backing that lies flat to prevent tripping.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Annual_Fall_Risk_Screening\"><\/span>7. Annual Fall Risk Screening<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Falls are often a symptom of underlying health issues. A comprehensive screening, available through your primary care provider or a home care agency, helps identify these factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Vision Check:<\/strong> Annual eye exams ensure glasses prescriptions are current. <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/resources\/protecting-your-eyes-against-vision-loss\/\">Poor vision<\/a> significantly increases fall risk.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medication Review:<\/strong> Many common medications (sleep aids, blood pressure pills, and certain antidepressants) can cause dizziness or drowsiness. A pharmacist or doctor can adjust dosages or recommend alternatives.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Balance and Gait Test:<\/strong> Simple tests can evaluate your strength, balance, and walking pattern, allowing professionals to recommend targeted exercises or mobility aids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/clgry-sw-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Two senior women sit together on a patterned couch in a warmly lit living room. One wears an orange top and smiles lovingly at the other, who is wearing a yellow polo and gently holding her hand in a comforting and supportive gesture.\" class=\"wp-image-17622\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/clgry-sw-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/clgry-sw-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/clgry-sw-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/clgry-sw-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/clgry-sw.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Stay_Strong_and_Well\"><\/span>8. Stay Strong and Well<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining physical fitness is the best defence against falls. Even gentle activity can dramatically improve balance and reaction time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Targeted Exercises:<\/strong> Focus on activities that improve balance, strength (especially in the legs and core), and flexibility. Programs like Tai Chi or seated yoga are excellent options.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Walk Safely:<\/strong> Encourage walking, but always wear appropriate shoes. Seniors in the SW Calgary area may benefit from using indoor walking tracks during icy or extremely cold weather.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hydration and Nutrition:<\/strong> Proper diet and hydration help maintain energy levels and prevent lightheadedness, which can contribute to falls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Winter-Ready_Walkways\"><\/span>9. Winter-Ready Walkways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For Alberta homeowners, managing the exterior of the property is non-negotiable for fall prevention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Proactive Shovelling:<\/strong> Snow should be shovelled immediately after a snowfall, or services hired to do so, to prevent compaction and freezing.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Salting\/Sanding:<\/strong> Use a liberal application of coarse ice melt or sand on all paths, driveways, and stairs. Keep a pail and scoop near the main entry door for quick access.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Handrails Check:<\/strong> Ensure exterior handrails are free of snow and ice and remain sturdy throughout the winter season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Safe_Heating_for_the_Season\"><\/span>10. Safe Heating for the Season<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Safety precautions around heating elements are a matter of both fire prevention and fall prevention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Space Heater Placement:<\/strong> If used, space heaters must be placed on a hard, non-flammable surface where they cannot be easily knocked over. Ensure the power cord is not a tripping hazard across a walkway.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clear Vents:<\/strong> Keep furniture, curtains, and rugs away from furnace vents to ensure heat circulation and prevent fire risk.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fire\/CO Alarms:<\/strong> Test all smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Remember that CO poisoning can cause disorientation and dizziness, severely increasing the risk of a fall.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/sw-calgry-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"An older woman in a pink top sits beside a caregiver in a light blue Always Best Care polo shirt. They are smiling while looking at a laptop screen in a bright, homey room decorated with white flowers and a piano in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-17626\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/sw-calgry-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/sw-calgry-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/sw-calgry-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/sw-calgry-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/141\/2025\/09\/sw-calgry.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_for_Your_Personalized_Walk-Through\"><\/span>Ready for Your Personalized Walk-Through?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Nothing beats the assurance of a professional, caring eye. Book your in-home safety walk-through with Always Best Care of Calgary SW and let our friendly experts tailor a plan that fits your routine, your wants, and your unique home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/contact\/\">Click to book your visit<\/a>, call <a href=\"tel:403-800-7255\">403-800-7255<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/azrcckvNg5BXdSHK8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">visit us in Calgary<\/a> to schedule your consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c645e628e62f8fbab9d9726851472d16\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how Always Best Care Calgary SW empowers seniors and families with practical support and nurturing services for emotional and behavioural health.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":17556,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[234],"tags":[459,267,340,456,457,458],"class_list":["post-17693","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-senior-care"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17693","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17693"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17693\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17711,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17693\/revisions\/17711"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17556"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17693"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17693"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/calgarysw\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17693"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}