The holidays are an exciting and busy time for every family. Here are a few reminders to help keep you and your loved ones healthy this holiday season.
Many doctors offices and drug stores are open for shorter hours over the holidays. Make sure you have enough of your everyday medications and medical supplies, such as blood testing strips and hearing aid batteries, to last the duration of the holiday season.
Tips for Seniors and Their Families
Are you caring for an older adult or having an elderly family member visit over the holidays? Here are a few tips to help keep them safe:
- Ask them to bring all their medication in the original packaging or bring a complete list of current medications. In the event of an emergency, pills and other medications are much easier to identify in original packaging, especially since in many countries the same medication may have a different name, colour or shape.
- Although safe for small children, baby gates can be hazardous for seniors who can trip over them. Open the gates when toddlers are safely in their beds or, if gates must stay closed, ensure everyone is well aware of where they are in the house.
- Install nightlights in the hallway to help family members find their way to the washroom at night.
- Remove scatter/throw rugs, as they can be a tripping hazard.
- Make sure driveways and walkways are clear of ice and snow to avoid falls.
Tips to Help You Avoid a Trip to the Emergency Department
No one wants to spend time in an Emergency Department (ED) over the holidays. Here are a few tips to help you reduce avoidable trips to the ED this busy season.
- Everyone in your family should get the flu shot.
- Cold weather can cause serious health concerns, especially in the very young and elderly. Make sure to stay dry and dress warmly in several layers of loose-fitting clothing when outdoors.
- Handle, prepare and store food safely.
- Avoid the temptation to overindulge on holiday treats. Over-eating could lead to discomfort, especially among those with digestion issues.
Tips for Parents with Young Children
Help keep children healthy over the holidays, by remembering these tips.
- Ensure immunizations are up to date.
- Remind children to wash hands frequently, especially after bathroom trips and before meals.
- Teach kids to cough and sneeze into their elbow.
- Make sure they drink plenty of fluids.
- Keep small items that can cause a choking hazard out of reach of young children.
- Provide healthy meals and snacks and lots of fresh fruit including those with vitamin C.
- Encourage children to get enough rest.
Health Care Options
Find an Ontario doctor, nurse practitioner or healthcare location close to home by visiting: www.ontario.ca/healthcareoptions
Telehealth Ontario is a free, confidential telephone service you can call to get health advice from a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact: 1-866-797-0000 or TTY: 1-866-797-0007
York Region Health Connection is a free and confidential health information/education telephone service. They can provide health information, support and counselling. Contact Health Connection Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-252-9933.