It’s that time of year again when the snow starts to cover the ground, and trying to prevent falls when walking around outside becomes a top priority, which can be especially important for seniors, as slipping and falling can often lead to severe injuries. But what if there was a way to prevent these kinds of accidents? Well, there are quite a few things seniors can do to help prevent falls in the snow. And this post is designed to help highlight some of them!
The Dangers Of Falling As A Senior
As scary as it sounds, falls are the leading cause of injuries and hospitalizations for seniors. Each year, one in three people aged 65 and over will experience a fall, and 20 to 30 percent of those falls will result in serious injuries such as hip fractures or head trauma. Many of these injuries can lead to long-term disability or even death. Falling is the number one cause of fatal injuries in seniors.
While these numbers may come as a bit of a shock, the intention is not to scare anyone away from enjoying the winter weather. Rather, it’s to highlight how important it is for seniors to be extra cautious when out and about in the snow.
Wear Proper Footwear
Winter brings many potential hazards, from icy sidewalks to slippery steps. One of the best ways to stay safe during winter is to wear proper footwear. Ice and snow can make even the most familiar walking surface treacherous, so choosing shoes or boots that offer good traction is essential. Studded shoes or boots are a good option for icy conditions, while water-resistant footwear can help to keep your feet dry in slushy or wet conditions.
It’s also essential to ensure that your footwear is warm and comfortable, as cold, wet feet can be a recipe for disaster. Options like wool socks and insulated boots can help keep your feet warm and dry, even on the coldest days.
Walk At A Slow Pace
Walking in the snow can be treacherous, especially for seniors at risk of falling. One way to prevent falls is to walk slowly and deliberately, taking small steps and placing each foot carefully. For some, this may seem a bit silly, but it’s an important way to help avoid unexpected slips and falls.
You can also use techniques like walking with your hands held firmly on a railing or using an assistive cane to help you stay balanced. And if you need to walk up or down a steep slope, take it slowly and place one foot in front of the other until you reach the top.
Take Care When Entering And Exiting Your Car
Every winter, countless people slip and fall on the ice while getting in and out of their cars. While some falls are minor and result in a bruised ego, others can be much more serious, causing broken bones or even head injuries. How can you prevent such a fall from happening to you? First, take care when entering and exiting your car. Make sure you have a firm grip on the door handle before stepping out, and use caution when getting in or out of the car to avoid slipping on the ice.
Wear shoes with good traction to help reduce your risk of falling, if possible. Finally, be aware of your surroundings. If a spot on the pavement looks particularly slick, take a different route to avoid it. By taking these simple precautions, you can help to prevent yourself from becoming another statistic this winter.