The potential for increased drowning among older adults and seniors will continue as more "baby boomers" retain the same behaviours of their younger years, despite reduced physical capabilities that come with age, which are sometimes hard to admit. In addition, certain medical conditions and medications may affect a person's physical ability or mental capacity.
Seniors pose a high drowning risk in bathtubs and provate pools.
Important tips and reminders for older adults:
- Boat with a buddy, never alone.
- Wear a lifejacket when boating.
- Be realistic about encroaching health limitations. Know your heart health through regular check-ups and don't take more risks any more in, on or near the water.
- Understand the possible effects of any medication you may be taking on your swimming ability or endurance, and be especially careful to avoid combining any medications with alcohol and water activity.
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- Always wear your lifejacket or PFD and avoid high-risk cold-water situations - especially alone or after dark. You may become more sensitive and less resistant to cold as you get older so take precautions to avoid exposure to the effects of cold water and hypothermia.
- Clear, hard, new ice is the only kind of ice recommended for travel. Avoid slushy ice, ice on moving water (rivers, currents), or ice that has thawed and refrozen. Wear a thermal protection buoyant suit to increase your chance of survival if you go through.
Bathroom Safety
Bathtub safety is just as important as pool safety! As you age, showering and bathing can become harder and more dangerous. Here are some tips to ensure bath/shower time is safe and successful:
- Gather the materials you need beforehand
- Install grab bars in the shower or bath and near the toilet. Make sure they are
properly anchored.
- Test the water temperature before entering.
- Use grip mats or adhesive strips in the shower or the tub.
- Ensure there’s proper lighting.
- Keep electrical appliances away from the water and unplugged when not in use.
- Ensure the bathroom door can be unlocked from the outside in case of an emergency.
- Use a shower chair or bench if balance is limited.
- Install a handheld showerhead for easier bathing.
- Consider a walk-in shower or low-threshold tub.
- Clearly mark hot and cold-water controls.
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
Download our handy bath safety checklist for seniors - Checklist in English / Checklist in French
Learn to Swim
Basic swimming ability is a fundamental requirement in any meaningful attempt to eliminate drowning in Canada. The Lifesaving Society offers training programs from learn-to-swim through advanced lifesaving, lifeguarding and leadership.
Our Swim for Life program stresses lots of in-water practice to develop solid swimming strokes and skills. We incorporate valuable Water Smart® education that will last a lifetime.
Swim to Survive is a Lifesaving Society survival training program. Swim to Survive is not a substitute for swimming lessons; instead, it defines the minimum skills needed to survive an unexpected fall into deep water. People of all ages should be able to perform the Society's Swim to Survive standard.