With the summer season officially over, Canadians begin to prepare for the fall months with all the wonderful things it brings. Cozy evenings, sweaters, and of course fall holidays! Halloween is perhaps the most exciting for children. But, they’re not the only ones who can have fun during this special holiday. Halloween is a fun and active time for people of all ages. But it can also present some unique challenges for older adults that might not exist for younger trick-or-treaters. Does this mean that it may be best for seniors to sit out this holiday? No! Just like with about anything, older adults can participate and enjoy this activity with a few considerations and modifications. In this blog, we’ll outline two ways that seniors can participate in the Halloween festivities and how they can do it safely.
How Can Seniors Participate During Halloween?
Everybody is different. We all want to spend our time differently. And that’s ok. We don’t want to tell somebody that they can’t walk door-to-door with their family during Halloween or that they need to skip the holiday altogether. We know how important walking is to an older adult's overall health and we want to empower older adults with ideas that will allow them to stay safe regardless of what they decide to do. Here are our top three ways older adults can safely celebrate Halloween.
Can Seniors Go Trick-or-Treating Too?
Absolutely! If you have the energy and desire to go trick-or-treating with family, there’s no reason not to join in. However, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure it’s a safe experience. Consider walking with a group of friends or family members and choose a well-lit, familiar route to avoid any falls or accidents. Carrying around a flashlight and wearing well-fitting shoes with a good grip will also help. Wear comfortable clothing (preferably with reflective materials). There’s also nothing wrong with taking breaks in between a few houses.
Additionally, carrying a mobile medical alert device like the Victoria Lifeline On the Go mobile button provides an extra layer of safety. This device allows you to easily call for help if needed, no matter where you are.* Giving you and your loved ones peace of mind while you’re out and about.
Safety Considerations When Going Out to Trick-or-Treat
Avoid Peak Trick-or-Treating Hours
Aim to be on the streets before 5:30 PM or after 9:00 PM when most children are out trick-or-treating. This helps you avoid crowded sidewalks and reduces the risk of accidents.
Stay on Well-Lit Streets
Choose routes with good lighting and avoid poorly lit areas. If necessary, bring a flashlight or wear reflective gear to ensure drivers and others can see you.
Watch Out for Tripping Hazards
Be mindful of uneven sidewalks, loose gravel, or other obstacles that might cause a fall. Keep an eye out for decorations or items that could trip you up.
Safety Considerations For Seniors Handing Out Candy to Trick-or-Treaters
If you prefer to stay at home, here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening:
Keep Your Home Well-Lit
Make sure your porch light and entryways are brightly lit. This not only helps visitors see their way to your door but also helps you have better visibility of your surroundings and can help deter any unwanted visitors or vandals. Opt for flameless LED candles instead of real candles to eliminate the risk of fire while still staying on theme.
Clear Pathways of Hazards
Remove any items from your porch or walkway that could pose a tripping hazard, such as loose decorations, garden hoses, or uneven doormats.
Take it slow!
Don’t rush to answer the door; take your time to get up and move carefully to avoid any slips or falls. Let visitors know you’re coming by turning on the porch light or calling out, so they’re patient while you make your way.
Invite Company Over
Having a neighbour, family member or a friend around can make the evening more enjoyable and safer. They can help with handing out treats and provide companionship, making the night less daunting.
Halloween is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with loved ones and feel part of the community while also nurturing the inner child that lives in all of us. With a few precautions, you can safely enjoy all the festivities this Halloween. Whether you choose to join the trick-or-treaters or host from home, your safety and peace of mind should always come first. Happy Halloween!
This article is meant to be informational and should not replace the advice of a trained healthcare professional. What works for some individuals, might be harmful to others. Consult a professional before making any significant changes.
Blog by; Maor Tsitrin, Marketing & Communications Assistant
