Avoid snow shoveling injuries
Tips for seniors to stay safe and injury free this winter
Courtesy Bella Vida at Eaglewood, Salt Lake City LIVING WELL Magazine
Winter is on its way. And with it the snow will fall. Shoveling snow is a very physical activity and is comparable to lifting weights fast and with many repetitions.
It has been estimated that on average 1,200 people a year die as a result of shoveling snow. Add the back injuries, shoulder dislocation and heart attacks, and snow shoveling is one of the most dangerous activities senior citizens can attempt.
Harvard University suggests that people over the age of 50 should take special precautions to avoid snow shoveling hazards. These easy tips will help seniors shovel snow safely this winter.
- Dress appropriately. Wearing layers will allow you to adjust to the temperature outside. Be sure to dress warmly enough and cover your head, face and hands when outside for prolonged periods of time. If you become overheated, take a break from shoveling.
- Pick a small shovel. Depending on how wet the snow is, a shovel full of snow can weigh up to 15 pounds! Selecting a smaller shovel means lighter loads of snow, which can help prevent injury to the body by creating less strain.
- Shovel frequently. If you are in for a big storm, go outside and shovel every time the snow fall is about 2 inches. This will help lessen the load and make snow shoveling more manageable.
- Set a time limit. Shoveling snow is hard work. With a large driveway or long sidewalk, you could be shoveling for up to an hour or more. Come inside after 20-30 minutes and start again. This will be the same as a 30-minute vigorous workout.
- Lift with the legs, not the back. Make sure that your knees are bending and straightening to lift the shovel instead of leaning forward and straightening back up with the back.
- Push the snow. It’s easier to push the shovel full of snow instead of lifting and throwing the snow.
- Never shovel alone. Let a spouse or neighbor know you will be shoveling. That way, if you do get into trouble someone will be looking out and can call for help quickly.
- DON’T SHOVEL SNOW. The very best way to avoid injuring yourself shoveling snow is to NOT SHOVEL SNOW. Move to Bella Vida and let someone else do it.
Bella Vida at Eaglewood is much more than the traditional retirement community; it is the most comprehensive active adult condo community with everything from luxurious resort designs to an atmosphere that fosters the independent and active lifestyle adults 55+ are looking for. And living at Bella Vida means you will never have to shovel snow again!
Besides snow and landscaping services, Bella Vida offers residents an exclusive concierge service that provides an à la carte carte menu of pre-screened contractors that can provide home health services, meal delivery, housekeeping, pet services, etc. Residents only pay for the services they want and need.
“Every aspect of Bella Vida is specifically designed to help seniors stay independent and active longer,” says Annette Judd, a lifestyle director at Bella Vida.
The Clubhouse is one of the social highlights of Bella Vida. Features include a fitness center, swimming pool, library, and multi-purpose room, with activities such as fireplace socials, book clubs, movie nights, cooking classes, game nights, and day excursions. The Clubhouse can also be reserved by residents for family activities and gatherings.
Bella Vida is perfect for those looking to downsize from the responsibilities of maintaining a home and property, but cherish the concept of home ownership. The elegant two- and three-bedroom units range from 1,360 to 1,564 square feet.
The Bella Vida community now offers a detached home option known as “The Villas at Bella Vida.” These beautifully crafted homes enjoy all the amenities and benefits allotted to Bella Vida residents. Enjoy the views, the lifestyle, and the beauty––all in the comforts of your own home.
Bella Vida is in the perfect location––nestled in the foothills but still close to family and friends. Bella Vida offers breathtaking views in all directions. Not only does it share the prestige of the Eaglewood Community of North Salt Lake, but it is only 5 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City and 10 minutes from the Salt Lake International Airport. The Eaglewood Golf Course, and the Eagle Ridge Tennis and Swim Club are also within walking distance of Bella Vida. World-renowned medical facilities, arts, shopping, historical sites, golf courses, theaters, restaurants, and other attractions are also very close.
Visit Bella Vida at Eaglewood today! More information and a virtual tour can be found at www.BellaVidaCondos.com or speak with a Bella Vida sales consultant Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. by visiting the Sales Office at 625 S. Eaglewood Dr. North Salt Lake City, or by calling 801-936-5000.
