During the summer, many runners take their workout from the treadmill at home to a path or track outdoors. In addition to the physical fitness benefits you get from running—or even walking—outdoors, you’ll also feel a boost in spirit. Spending time in nature is known to be very therapeutic: nurtured by nature is how psychologists have described it.

If you like to enjoy your run or walk alone, however, there are some precautions you should take to stay safe.

Inform a buddy: Tell or text a friend when you head out where you’re going and when you should be back. Be sure to tell them where you’ll be running, too. Ask your buddy to check in if they haven’t heard from you at the designated time.

Vary your routes and times: While no runner or walker likes to think they are being watched, it’s a possibility you must consider. One way to avoid it is by not being too predictable. Vary where you run, as well as the days and times.

Run in busy places: We understand there is great appeal to running in a quiet, contemplative location. Unfortunately, it raises the risk that you will be injured and unable to get help quickly or that someone unscrupulous will make you a target. Solo runners and walkers are generally safer in busy places.

Take a self-defense class: Another way to protect yourself is to take some basic self-defense courses. In the event you are targeted for crime, you’ll be more likely to escape injury or another form of harm.

Skip the headphones: When running alone, it’s important to stay alert to what is happening around you. That’s tough to do when you have headphones on or earbuds in. If you really must listen to music while you run, clip your phone or iPod to your belt and put it on speaker.

Bling your clothing: It’s an unfortunate reality that runners are the victims of car accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 100,000 pedestrians are hit by cars every year. In 2020, more than 7,000 pedestrians died in accidents involving a car. By placing neon stripes on your clothing and shoes or wearing a reflective vest, you might lower your risk of injury.

Invest in an emergency device: Finally, consider purchasing a mobile monitoring unit. This wireless device can work almost anywhere and can be worn or slipped in a pocket or fanny pack. In the event of an emergency, you can summon help with the press of a button.


If you’d like more information on an emergency call device for yourself or a loved one who is a runner, call us at 1-844-203-5617. One of our experienced team members will be happy to answer your questions and offer advice!

Many people prefer to run in solitude. While running alone has its advantages, there are some safety concerns. Read more here.

What Solo Runners Need to Know to Stay Safe

Winter can be a beautiful time of year. Frost-covered trees and gently falling snow are pretty to look at. But for older adults, the season can also come with potential hazards, particularly when it comes to shoveling snow. As the snow accumulates, clearing driveways and sidewalks is an essential task, but it’s also a physically demanding one. It can lead to an injury or a health emergency, especially for those with certain health conditions or mobility issues.

That’s why learning more about snow-shoveling safety is a must for older adults. Here are some practical tips to help minimize the risks associated with shoveling snow.

Tips to Help Seniors Avoid Snow-Shoveling Injuries

Before picking up the shovel, assess the situation. If the snowstorm has left deep, heavy snow or if temperatures are dangerously low, consider skipping the task altogether. Heavy, wet snow is much harder to move and can strain the heart and muscles. In extreme cases, it can even lead to heart attacks. In fact, the American Heart Association says hundreds of people die of heart attacks caused by snow shoveling each year.

First, consider using a snow blower instead of a shovel. A snow blower significantly reduces the physical exertion required for snow removal. If you have frequent snowfalls and difficulty shoveling, it can be a worthwhile investment.

If you don’t have access to a snow blower, choosing the right snow shovel can make all the difference in reducing strain on your body. Look for a lightweight plastic shovel with a curved handle. This will allow you to maintain a more ergonomic posture while shoveling. Also, try to avoid shovels that are too long or too short, as they can cause you to strain your back or arms.

Just as you would prepare for any physical activity, it’s important to warm up before shoveling snow. Stretching your back, arms, and legs can help reduce the risk of muscle strain and injuries. Focus on stretches that improve flexibility in your back and legs, and make sure to gently move through each stretch without pushing too hard. A quick 5- or 10-minute warm-up routine can increase blood flow and prepare your body for the task ahead.

Shoveling snow can be physically taxing, especially if you’re not used to the activity. Take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion, which can lead to heart problems and falls. Pace yourself, and don’t try to clear the entire area all at once. Work in smaller sections, and stop every 10 to 15 minutes to rest. If you feel winded or dizzy, head back inside to take a break.

Overexertion can also increase the risk of dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of water while shoveling, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and muscle cramps, increasing your risk of injury.

When shoveling snow, avoid bending at the waist to lift the snow. Instead, bend your knees and squat to lift the shovel, keeping your back straight. If the snow is too heavy, don’t try to lift it all at once. Instead, push the snow to one side and clear it in smaller amounts. Lifting heavy loads of snow improperly can strain your back and increase the risk of injury.

Additionally, avoid twisting your body when throwing snow to the side. Instead, use your legs to pivot while keeping your body in a straight line to prevent unnecessary strain on your back.

Proper footwear is essential when shoveling snow. Slip-and-fall accidents are common in icy conditions, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries, such as fractures or sprains. Choose boots with nonslip soles that provide good traction. The boots should also be waterproof to keep your feet warm and dry, which is particularly important when shoveling for extended periods.

Finally, if shoveling snow starts to feel like too much for you, ask for help. Or consider hiring a snow-removal service to handle the job. Many communities offer snow-shoveling services for seniors, and some organizations provide volunteers for this purpose. Call the closest agency on aging to see if it keeps a list of resources that older adults can contact for assistance.

One more safety measure you can take when you’re shoveling snow is to invest in an emergency response system, such as the Life Protect 24/7 Mobile Monitoring Unit. You can slip one of these discreet devices into your coat pocket before you head outside. In the event that you do experience an emergency of some kind while shoveling, you can be connected to help with the simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

When it comes to shoveling snow, safety is a big concern, especially for seniors. Use these tips to avoid an injury.

Snow-Shoveling Safety Tips for Older Adults

Reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the new year is a powerful practice that can help you gain clarity, motivation, and direction. It may also help you identify patterns that might be holding you back from achieving your dreams. Having guideposts to direct your life for the next year can make it easier for you to set priorities and boundaries.

We’ve put together some guidelines to help you tackle this year-end project. Following these steps can make it easier to effectively reflect on the previous year and establish meaningful goals for the year ahead.

Evaluating the Past Year’s Goals and Setting New Ones

Start by finding a quiet and comfortable space where you can think without distractions. Gather materials like a journal, pen, or digital device to jot down your thoughts. If you wrote down goals this time last year, be sure to have a copy of those in hand. You might also want to have some prompts ready to guide your reflection.

Consider playing soft music or lighting a candle to create a calming atmosphere. The idea is to give yourself a setting that encourages reflection and introspection.

Planning for the new year should start with time spent reflecting on the past:

Identify your most meaningful experiences
Begin by summarizing key events from the last year. What were the highs and lows? Consider personal milestones, professional achievements, relationships, and challenges. Reflect on both significant events and everyday moments that had an impact on you.

Assess your emotions
As you recall these experiences, take note of the emotions associated with them. What made you feel proud, happy, or fulfilled? Conversely, what caused stress, disappointment, or frustration? Understanding your emotional responses can help you identify what truly matters to you.

Learn from the past
Think critically about what you learned over the past year. What skills did you develop? What mistakes did you make, and what lessons did they teach you? This analysis can provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement.

Step 3: Acknowledge and Celebrate Accomplishments

Take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. List everything you accomplished, from professional achievements to personal growth. Recognizing your successes boosts your confidence and reinforces a positive mindset as you move forward.

After celebrating your successes, turn your attention to areas where you faced challenges. What obstacles did you encounter? Were there goals you didn’t achieve? Instead of viewing these as failures, frame them as opportunities for growth. Ask yourself what you can do differently this year to overcome similar challenges.

Once you have a clear understanding of your past year, it’s time to set intentions for the new year. Start by brainstorming areas of your life that you want to focus on, such as career, health, relationships, or personal development.

Make Your Goals SMART
To create effective goals, consider using SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of saying “I want to get fit,” rephrase your goal as “For the next three months, I will exercise five times a week for 30 minutes each time.”

Visualize Your Success
Imagine what achieving your goals will look and feel like. Visualization can enhance your motivation and commitment. Consider creating a vision board or writing a detailed description of what your life will look like once you achieve your goals.

Once you have set your goals, develop an action plan outlining the steps you need to take to achieve them. Break each goal down into smaller, manageable tasks. Assign deadlines to these tasks to create a sense of urgency and accountability. It’s important to challenge yourself while also making sure not to set unrealistic expectations.

Another key to success is to build in ways to hold yourself accountable. You could find an accountability buddy who is working on self-improvement, too—it could be a trusted friend, family member, or mentor who has your best interests in mind. Share your goals with one another and set a plan to check in on a routine basis. Regular check-ins can provide support, motivation, and constructive feedback, making it easier to stay on track.

Instead of waiting until a whole year has gone by, periodically review your progress. Reflect on what’s working, what isn’t, and whether your goals still resonate with you. Be open to adjusting your goals as needed, as life can bring unexpected changes.

Finally, it’s important to accept that not everyone likes or appreciates the formality of structured goal setting. If you are one of them, other options to consider might be to create a bucket list or to join the one little word movement. Either one can help you move forward, but in a more flexible manner.

Winter can be a great time of year to explore the peace of mind that comes from investing in a mobile monitoring unit for yourself or a loved one. These alert systems are small and easy to slide into a pocket or purse. If an emergency occurs, help can be summoned with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 for more details!

Are you looking for ways to streamline your goal setting for the new year? This information might be of interest.

Reflecting on the Year: Lessons Learned and Goals for the New Year

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, a winter getaway can be an invigorating experience for older adults looking to escape the cold or simply enjoy a change of scenery. Whether it’s a cozy retreat in the mountains or a sunny beach vacation, the key to ensuring a memorable trip is thoughtful planning.

Here are some ideas and tips for seniors to consider when planning their winter getaway.

The first step in getting organized for your winter vacation is deciding on a destination. If you don’t already have one in mind, here are a few options to consider:

Warm-weather spots: Many seniors who live in colder climes prefer to head to a place with sunnier skies and warmer temperatures. Popular places include Florida, Arizona, and Southern California, where you can find beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and plenty of sunshine.

Mountain retreats: For those who enjoy winter sports or simply want a picturesque winter landscape, consider a mountain getaway. Locations like Aspen, Colorado, or Lake Tahoe, California, offer skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy lodges for relaxation. Many also have additional activities to enjoy, such as film festivals, boutique shopping, nightlife, and a variety of upscale restaurants.

Cultural cities: You might also want to consider exploring vibrant cities with rich histories and cultural offerings. Cities like New Orleans, Savannah, or Santa Fe might be fun. These cities provide warm weather, interesting architecture, and engaging events. You could also visit cities known for their museums, including quirky ones like the Spy Museum.

Comfort and accessibility are paramount, especially for seniors and people with mobility challenges. Keep these factors in mind as you plan:

Accommodations: Look for hotels or rental properties that cater to seniors, featuring accessible amenities such as elevators, grab bars, and easy access to dining options.

Transportation: Choose destinations with accessible transportation options, such as airports with senior-friendly services, shuttles, and public transit. Consider renting a car if that offers greater flexibility.

Healthcare access: While no one wants to think the worst will happen on vacation, sometimes it does. Take a few minutes to research nearby healthcare facilities, just in case. Knowing where to find medical assistance can provide peace of mind.

Winter getaways offer a range of activities, so think about what interests you and how you’d like to spend your vacation:

Outdoor adventures: If you enjoy being active, consider whether your potential vacation spot has easy access to skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking in scenic areas. Many resorts offer classes and guided tours for all skill levels.

Relaxation: A winter getaway is an excellent opportunity to unwind. You could look for a resort that offers spa services, yoga classes, art classes, writers’ workshops, or simple, scenic spots for quiet reflection.

Local events: Check local calendars for winter festivals, art exhibits, or music performances. Engaging with local culture can enrich your travel experience.

Traveling with friends or family can enhance the enjoyment of a getaway. Here are some tips for group travel:

Plan together: Involve travel companions in the planning process to ensure everyone’s preferences and needs are considered. This can include choosing activities, meals, and accommodations.

Ask about group discounts: Many hotels and attractions offer discounts for group bookings. Be sure to inquire about these when making reservations.

Share responsibilities: Divide tasks among the group. One person could handle accommodations, another could arrange transportation, and someone else could plan activities.

Creating a budget is essential for any trip. Consider these aspects:

Travel costs: Factor in transportation, accommodations, meals, and activities. Look for package deals that can provide savings.

Emergency fund: Set aside some funds for unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies or last-minute changes in plans.

Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially for longer trips. Knowing that cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage are covered will give you peace of mind.

Preparation is key to a successful getaway. Here are some steps to take:

Packing: Make a packing list to ensure you have everything you need. Include clothing appropriate for the destination’s climate, comfortable footwear, and any necessary travel documents. It’s also a good idea to keep a change of clothes, medication, and your cell phone charger or battery pack in your carry-on bag.

Health checks: Schedule a health checkup before your trip. Discuss any concerns with your doctor and ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your getaway.

Emergency contacts: Create a list of emergency contacts, including family members, healthcare providers, and local emergency services in your destination.

Itinerary: Don’t forget to give a copy of your daily itinerary to loved ones who are staying at home. That way, they’ll know how to contact you in case of an emergency.

With careful planning, you’re almost sure to have a fun winter getaway with friends and family!

If the idea of heading off on vacation has you concerned about safety, know that you aren’t alone. It’s common for older adults to worry when they are far from familiar faces and places.

One suggestion is to invest in a mobile monitoring unit. These discreet devices can easily fit into a pocket or purse. In the event of an emergency, you only need to press a button to be connected with someone who can help. Because they work off wireless technology, you can take them anywhere you go. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Are you a senior who is starting to plan a winter
getaway? These step-by-step tips might be of interest.

Tips for Seniors Planning a Winter Getaway

During the holiday season, several generations of the family often come together. For some, it’s the first time they’ve all been together in months. A great way to strengthen family bonds and build memories is to organize a craft party for grandparents and grandchildren to enjoy together.

Don’t be concerned if you don’t consider yourself to be an arts-and-crafts person. There are so many activities you can take part in that don’t require any special skills. This comprehensive guide to planning a successful craft party can help you plan an event both generations will enjoy any time of year.

Start by selecting a theme. It’s a good way to provide focus and excitement for your craft party. Consider themes that resonate with both grandparents and grandchildren, such as:

Seasonal: While you might have winter on your mind this time of year, don’t limit yourself to just the holidays. When the snow is blowing and it’s cold outside, it might be fun to plan luau- or beach-themed activities. Platforms like Pinterest and Etsy are good sites to explore for ideas.

Nature-inspired: Projects using natural materials like twigs, pine cones, evergreens, leaves, and stones might also be good ones to try. You could make everything from bird feeders to tree garland.

Family heritage: Crafts that explore family traditions or ancestry, such as family trees or heritage scrapbooks, can be great memory-making activities—especially when multiple generations of the family are involved.

Painted rocks: Let’s face it, kids love painting rocks, and it’s an easy and fun activity with minimal cost. You can even make rock collecting a part of your intergenerational activity.

Once you have chosen a theme, it’s time to come up with a few specific projects for your gathering. Unless the grandchildren are all older, you’ll likely want to aim for projects that are engaging but not overly complex. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Photo frames: Decorate wooden or cardboard frames with paint, stickers, or embellishments. This allows grandchildren to personalize a frame for a favorite photo with their grandparents.

Memory boxes: Provide small craft-style boxes or jars, along with a variety of art supplies to decorate them with. They can be filled with favorite mementos, notes to one another, or secret treasures.

Birdhouses: Whether you use elements of nature to create unique birdhouses from scratch or purchase unfinished ones to decorate, this is an activity that can bring out everyone’s creative side.

Unless you are planning a project where you’ll be collecting bits of nature from around the yard or beach, you’ll probably want to get supplies together ahead of time. That will ensure everything runs smoothly during the party. Collect all the necessary supplies for the projects, such as:

Basic craft supplies: Assemble supplies such as scissors (including kid-sized, if needed), glue, markers, paints, brushes, and paper. You’ll probably want tablecloths or a roll of craft paper to protect tables, too.

Special materials: Depending on your projects, you may need specific items like wooden frames, jars, boxes, or natural materials.

Protective gear: Have smocks or old shirts on hand to protect clothing from paint and glue.

A welcoming environment sets the stage for a fun and enjoyable experience. Choose a suitable location for the craft party, whether it’s in your kitchen, the basement, or the garage, or even at a local park. Ensure the space is comfortable and has enough room for everyone to work. Consider the following:

Seating arrangements: Arrange tables and chairs to encourage interaction. Ensure there’s enough space for everyone to craft comfortably.

Table covers: Use disposable tablecloths to protect surfaces from spills and messes.

Lighting: Ensure the area is well-lit, especially for detailed craft work.

Music: This might be a great assignment for the grandkids to handle. You could consider asking them to create a playlist just for this occasion.

Crafting can be hard work! Snacks can provide a nice break and keep energy levels up throughout the party. So plan to have some healthy snacks, a few tasty treats, and a variety of drinks available. Maybe even choose a theme for your refreshments, such as all pumpkin snacks and beverages. It might help to choose easy-to-eat options that aren’t too messy, such as:

Fruits and vegetables: Platters of cut fruits and veggies with dips.

Finger foods: Mini sandwiches, cheese cubes, or popcorn.

Beverages: Water, juice, or a fun holiday-themed punch.

Finally, remember to document your adventures throughout the day by taking photos as family members are working and after the projects are finished. Be sure to get a few group shots of everyone with their completed crafts. After the party, consider creating a small photo album or scrapbook as a keepsake that grandparents and grandchildren can cherish together.

If you haven’t already done so, we encourage you to bookmark the Life Protect 24/7 blog and visit often. You’ll find articles on topics ranging from health and wellness to senior living, caregiving, and home safety! And we update the blog each week with the latest news and research.

Wondering how to bond with the grandkids this holiday season or over the summer? An intergenerational craft day might be the answer.

How to Organize an Intergenerational Craft Day

Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can sometimes be a daunting task. As can figuring how to celebrate the season with colleagues and supervisors—and if you are a business owner, with your clients. One avenue to consider is giving the gift of a donation to their favorite cause.

Incorporating charitable giving into your holiday traditions can enrich the season, fostering a spirit of generosity and community. As we celebrate with family, friends, and coworkers, we can also extend our hands to those in need. Here are some meaningful ways to make charitable giving a part of your holiday celebrations.

Supporting Charitable Organizations Through the Holidays

Creating a family tradition around charitable giving can instill values of compassion and generosity in future generations. Set aside time each year to choose a charity together. This could involve discussing the causes that mean the most to each family member, whether it’s supporting local food banks, animal shelters, or global initiatives. You can make a donation as a family to that cause.

Making this a regular part of your holiday routine reinforces the importance of giving back. It might even be nice for the younger generations to hold small fundraisers to cover the cost of the donation.

While monetary gifts are always appreciated by nonprofit organizations, your time can make a difference, too. Volunteering can be one of the most rewarding ways to give back. Gather your family and choose a local organization where you can volunteer together.

Whether you decide to serve meals at a shelter, participate in a community cleanup, or help at a food drive, working side by side can deepen family bonds while also making a positive impact.

Instead of traditional gifts, consider making a donation to a charity in honor of a family member or friend. Choose a cause that reflects their interests or values, and let them know about the donation with a thoughtful card explaining the impact of their gift. This gesture not only supports those in need but also reinforces the spirit of giving during the holidays.

Gathering supplies to create care packages for those in need is a hands-on way to give back. Organize a family assembly line to pack items like hygiene products, warm clothing, and nonperishable food. Consider distributing these packages to local shelters or community organizations. The act of creating and delivering care packages can instill gratitude and empathy in everyone involved.

Shop at Local Businesses That Support a Cause

Many local businesses give back to the community through charitable initiatives. By shopping at these establishments during the holidays, you can contribute to local charities while supporting the economy. Look for businesses that donate a percentage of their sales to causes you care about. This way, your holiday shopping can make a double impact.

A giving tree is a wonderful visual representation of the spirit of giving. Set up a tree and have family members hang tags listing the charitable organizations they’d like other family members to donate to in their honor. This can be especially useful for younger children, who often receive an abundance of holiday gifts. You can donate monetary gifts or check with the charity to see what supplies they might need.

In the spirit of encouraging others, share your charitable giving experiences on social media. Highlight the organizations you support, the events you participate in, or the impact of your family’s giving traditions. By sharing these experiences, you might inspire others to make charitable giving a part of their own holiday celebrations.

One final tip is to use an organization such as Great Nonprofits or Charity Navigator to learn more about the agency before donating. You’ll be able to read reviews from other donors and explore the nonprofit’s mission and goals.

If you’d like more ideas to finish up your shopping, this holiday gift guide might be of interest. You’ll find suggestions for friends, family, and even the boss!

Are you trying to make your holiday gift giving more meaningful this year? Charitable gifts might be the solution. Learn more here.

How to Make Charitable Giving a Part of Your Holidays

What Solo Runners Need to Know to Stay Safe

Safety Tips When Running Alone

Invest in an Emergency Alert System

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