(ARA) - Winter hasn't even started yet, but a lot of seniors are already dreading its eventual arrival. They know their lifestyle will change dramatically, and not for the better, once the snow starts to fall and ice forms on the roads and sidewalks.
Fear of slipping and falling - the leading cause of injury deaths and most common cause of nonfatal injuries among seniors -- will keep them inside. Instead of doing the things they like to do -- heading out to the mailbox everyday, running out for groceries when they feel like it, and going on walks, most seniors will stay inside where it's safe. They'll read books, watch TV, surf the Internet and knit the days away.
"Winter is one of the most glorious times of year and people should get to enjoy it no matter how old they are," says Doug Norton of 32 North Inc., a Biddeford, Maine company that specializes in traction gear. Their newest product, the STABILicer Lite, is already a hot seller among seniors. The cleat-like device fits over most shoes, and once fastened into place, provides traction on both snow and ice.
Steve Komito of Estes Park, Colo., says he wouldn't dream of leaving home without his StabiLicers during the winter months. "I carry mine in a zippered food storage bag in my backpack for winter hikes and in my jacket during winter walks on icy streets around town. They are so compact that I don't notice that I have them until I need them, then I'm really glad they're with me."
"Not only does the device grip the ice, it makes the wearer feel like he or she can stride naturally; but we do recommend that you practice walking with them on a safe surface, like carpet, to get used to the excellent traction they provide before doing so," says Norton.
In addition to wearing a device that improves your traction, here are some other ways to stay safe during the winter months:
* Be on the lookout for unseen patches of ice. Don't assume wet spots are safe to walk on. They may actually be black ice. After a light dusting of snow, beware of powder. It could be covering up a layer of ice.
* Keep your porch stoops, steps, walks and driveways free of ice by frequently applying ice melter granules. This is the best way to prevent formation of dangerous ice patches.
Among those who can't avoid walking on ice, and have tried out the STABILicer: "They say it's a life changing product for them. It gives them the confidence to once again enjoy winter, rather than feeling like they're being held captive in their houses," says Norton.
You can find the STABILicer Lite at sporting goods stores nationwide or order direct from the manufacturer. Log on to www.32north.com for a list of retailers near you.
