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Living the senior lifestyle: CA NEWS
Staying healthy and safe
JULY 2016 SUNRAYS | 13
Submitted by Susanne White, COPS volunteer

Do you wish you could live to be 100? If you live in Sun City,
let’s face it, you’re over 50 and halfway there! Regular physical
activity can help your body maintain, repair and improve itself
at any age. You’ll look and feel better too!
Although there are many options when it comes to fitness, for
older knees, hips, legs and backs, walking is a particularly good
activity. When you’re out and about, however, it is important to
remain aware of your surroundings – especially along roadways.
Important: Seniors account for the most pedestrian
fatalities!
A 2013 study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration found that persons aged 65 or older accounted
for 19 percent of all pedestrian deaths - more than any other
age group. By being mindful of your surroundings and following
traffic safety rules, you can reduce your risk of being involved
in a motor vehicle accident while walking, jogging or biking.

– Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic, ideally us-
ing the sidewalk.

– Obey traffic signs and symbols. If crossing at a traffic light,
do not rush through a changing light – instead, wait for
the next green light or walk signal.

– Use crosswalks or designated intersections whenever pos-
sible and watch for vehicles. Be particularly mindful of
vehicles which are turning.

– Never assume a driver can see you. When walking at night,
remember to carry a flashlight and wear bright and/or
reflective clothing.

Drivers be on the lookout!
– Watch out for walkers, they might be listening to music on
their iPods and step into traffic without checking.
– Walkers often wear dark clothes and are hard to see, es-
pecially during early morning hours or after sundown.
– Pass pedestrians (and cyclists) carefully. They have every
right to be on the road, just like you.

Including these basic pointers as part of your everyday outdoor
activities can help you to safely enjoy Sun City’s beautiful scen-
ery. So get out there, and make this the most rewarding and
enjoyable time of your life with years of active, energetic days!
Look out for each other and make Sun City Texas the best
place to live!

COPs help keep you safe. Please join us. Volunteer
just two hours, twice a month. We’ll train and outfit
you. You can drive in our car or staff the office in
your own home. For more information, call 512-
966-1362, Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m.
to 5 p.m.

ONLINE: SCTEXAS.ORG