Health Care in Canada: Winter Months Healthcare Tips

Use a Hand Sanitizer

Protect yourself and others from any germs you may carry.

As we learned during SARS, hand washing does not kill all of the germs. Hand sanitizers kill 99% of the germs so Do use it upon entering hospitals and residences today. Please keep your germs out of the facilities.

Hospitals insist today that you use it. Do the residences? Why not? They should. They have a right to ask that everyone use it before entering.

Keep it in your car and in your home. Every time you come back to your own vehicle or home, use it. That way you keep everyone else’s germs out of your space.

Together let’s protect ourselves and our seniors from germs wherever they may be.

Caring for Your Feet

It is important to take care of your feet as you get older. If your feet hurt, you’ll be less active which could increase your risk of a fall. People with sore feet often wear loose shoes or slippers which can also cause a fall.

Foot care tips

Wash your feet daily.
Rinse off all soap and water.
Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
Keep feet clean and dry.
Wear absorbent socks without tight elastic.

Cut your toe nails

Trim toe nails regularly using a proper nail clipper.
Cut toe nails after a bath as water will soften the nails making them easier to trim.
Cut nails straight across, not too short and not down at the corners.

For foot problems such as corns, calluses or plantar warts

Do not try to treat the problems yourself with chemicals or sharp tools.
Do it yourself treatments may cause wounds that heal slowly and become infected.
Consult a health professional about appropriate treatment of foot problems.

Improve your circulation

Foot massage can improve circulation and maintain the health of your skin.
Use lubricating cream or oil if your feet are dry.
Avoid long periods of sitting or standing still. Move your feet, flex your muscles and shift positions frequently to keep your feet and legs moving.

Local Seniors Centres or VON may have affordable foot clinic days. Check in your local papers or call your local Seniors Centre/Association for more information.

If you have difficult reaching your feet arrange for a friend, family member or professional, such as a podiatrist or nurse, to help you with your feet care.

Provided by Halton Region Health Department

Toll free: 1.866.442.5866 or visit halton

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