Salt sticks for elderly
A Hamilton politician has praised the work of two groups who are trying to help minimise trips and falls in vulnerable older people this winter.
Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, MSP Christina Mckelvie – who is also Minister for Older People and Equalities – this week congratulated the work of Seniors Together and Safer South Lanarkshire (SSL), who are using grant funding to provide `salt sticks.’
The sticks can be used by older people outside their homes on steps, gardens and paths.
Safer South Lanarkshire’s Unintentional Injuries Group (SSLUI) have a specific remit of preventing injuries happening to older people.
The SSLUI is made up of a range of first responder organisations and public and third sector organisations.
And the Winter Wizard salt sticks are reusable, recyclable, simple to use and easy to store.
Ms Mckelvie said: “I would like to congratulate Seniors Together and Safer South Lanarkshire on the work they are doing to try and minimise trips and falls in older people this winter.
“These `salt sticks’ will make it easier for our older citizens to feel safer around their own homes.
“If you think you can benefit from something like this I would urge you to get in touch with Seniors Together and see if you are eligible.”
Helen Biggins, chairperson of Seniors Together, said: “Older people have highlighted that they are most likely to experience a slip or trip on the way to their wheelie bin, or to the front gate. Even when the pavement outside has been gritted an injury can often happen inside the garden.
“So, on a recent visit to the council’s fleet services team, we discovered the Winter Wizard salt sticks which we thought could provide a real solution to the problem, as refillable, recyclable and easy to store and use.
“While we are able to supply these to the householders already known to us as being vulnerable to falls, we would urge all older and retired people to think about how the can protect themselves against injury this winter.
“The message is – think about being winter aware!”
If you have any concerns or questions with regards to the Salt sticks for yourself or a relative, contact Seniors Together on 01698 454105.