Is Kayaking Safe for Seniors?

June 27, 2022 3 min read

Can kayaking be safe for seniors? Well, there are a few things to keep in mind. The primary question to answer is whether it is suitable for senior citizens. The answer to that question depends on your personal preference and health. Here are some real and perceived risks. Make sure to check with your doctor first. Kayaking can be a fun activity, but planning is essential. Senior citizens may not have as much mobility as younger people, so it is important to consider your physical and health history before you get started.

Safety

Aside from its health benefits, kayaking is one of the most popular outdoor activities for seniors. Seniors should consider several safety issues when kayaking, including the possibility of drowning. Seniors should also consider the possibility of being near water, as they may encounter small nuisances such as beavers. A kayak may also encounter a curious goose or a snake. Even though kayaking is a safe activity, it can be dangerous if you happen to encounter wild animals such as bears, sharks, or alligators. Fortunately, kayakers are equipped with plastic paddles for protection.

Perceived Risks

There are both real risks and perceived risks in kayaking for seniors. While kayaking on a calm lake has a low level of perceived risk, there are still some dangers inherent in this activity. For example, heavy mud banks that act like quicksand can cause flips. On the other hand, kayaking in an open body of water poses a greater level of real risks because of riptides, reefs, and rip tides.

Real Dangers

Kayaking is a great recreational activity for the young at heart. But it's not just for the young. There are many ways to adapt kayaking for seniors, whether they're physically or cognitively challenged. Kayaking offers many benefits, including physical exercise, time outdoors, and the chance to relax in the fresh air. The dangers are real, but they're well worth the rewards. Read on to learn more.

Suitability

Although you might be physically young, you can still enjoy the sport of kayaking. Although kayaking is a sport that is often thought of for the physically young, it can be adapted to seniors. Seniors who enjoy kayaking will find the sport to be a wonderful way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and unwind. You can learn the basic skills necessary to get started and enjoy the sport with others.

ADA-Accessible Docks

There are several ADA-accessible kayak docks in place around the country. These docks make kayaking easier for seniors and people with limited mobility. Some kayak docks are equipped with wheelchair lifts, so people in wheelchairs or with partial paralysis can easily enter and exit the kayak. Others feature kayak launch and retrieval accessories. Choosing the right one will depend on your physical limitations and location, but many kayaking destinations offer ADA-accessible docks.

Lightweight Kayaks

There are many advantages to using a lightweight kayak for seniors. One of these benefits is that the kayak can be carried without a backpack. This is helpful if you need to keep all your gear dry. Seniors should also look for kayaks with flat hulls. These kayaks are safe for seniors and can be a fun way for them to stay active while on the water. They will also be able to meet other kayakers their age, which is an added benefit.

Tidal Currents

The first step in ensuring that tidal currents are safe for you and your senior kayaking trip is to learn about the tidal patterns at the location you're visiting. While the tide times may seem crucial, they're not always accurate. The rule of thirds is a helpful guide in knowing how to paddle within a safe current. The Rule of Thirds breaks each half of a flood into three segments: the first hour is the lowest, the second hour reaches a maximum, and the third hour reaches its highest.

Rip Currents

While you're in the water, make sure to keep an eye on rip currents and be aware of the dangers they pose. Although rip currents don't actually pull you under the water, they can yank you offshore. Those swept off the shore may not have the strength or swimming ability to keep themselves afloat, which could lead to drowning. Rip currents are particularly dangerous for people who are not strong swimmers.

Chairs for Kayaking

Seats for kayaking should be comfortable for the person paddling. The seat's shape should complement the physical attributes of the paddler. The backrest should support the lumbar region of the spine, with side flanks providing stability and allowing the torso to move freely. The seat base should be shallow enough to support the buttocks and end above the knees, reducing strain on the hip flexors.



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