Huron-Perth Boomers Winter 2023-24
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS<br />
by Marguerite Oberle Thomas<br />
A standard drink is:<br />
12 ounces of beer, 5% alcohol<br />
12 ounces cooler, cider, 5% alcohol<br />
5 ounces of wine<br />
1.5 ounces of 40% spirits<br />
www.ccsa.ca/canadas-guidance-alcohol-and-health<br />
Reduce your alcohol risk<br />
Follow the standard low-risk drinking guidelines:<br />
• Have a glass of water or juice in between<br />
alcoholic drinks.<br />
• Eat a protein-rich meal before you have a drink,<br />
or while drinking.<br />
• Pace yourself, allowing at least an hour between<br />
drinks.<br />
• Have at least two days each week when you don’t<br />
consume alcohol.<br />
• To ensure safe withdrawal, first talk to a trusted<br />
health care provider.<br />
Reduce your cannabis risk<br />
Start low, go slow. Get to know your own<br />
body’s response. A guide can be found at www.<br />
activeagingcanada.ca/assets/pdf/practitioners/<br />
cannabis/Older-Adults-and-Cannabis-Use.pdf.<br />
Reduce your falling risks<br />
• Keep an active and healthy lifestyle with walking<br />
and stretching.<br />
• Ensure good oral health and eat nutritious food.<br />
• Check out programs to increase your balance,<br />
strength, and flexibility.<br />
• Be aware that multiple medications can affect<br />
your balance and blood pressure.<br />
• Consult an occupational therapist or other<br />
qualified medical professional about your<br />
mobility aid, such as a cane or a walker, and how<br />
it should be maintained.<br />
• Get regular vision, hearing and medication<br />
checks.<br />
• Perform a home safety check.<br />
Fall facts<br />
Most falls are predictable and preventable and a<br />
previous fall is a good indicator of a future fall.<br />
16 • HURONPERTHBOOMERS.COM
Change language