Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls this Winter

Winter weather like ice and snow can be dangerous for anyone, but it is especially unsafe for elderly individuals. Every year, one out of every four adults age 65 or older falls.

Falls can lead to various injuries like broken wrists or arms, hip or knee fractures, rotator cuff tears, broken ankles, or concussions.

“All of these injuries will likely require therapy after and have different recovery times based on the type and severity of the injury,” said Darren Smith, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Iredell Health System.

If you do fall, even just once, it increases your chances of falling again.

“After a fall, people often become fearful and try to limit their activity after falling,” he said.

When you are inactive, your muscles begin to weaken, and your balance starts to diminish. This inactivity can increase your risk of another fall.

Luckily, there are ways you can reduce your risk of falling. To avoid slips, trips, and falls this winter, try these strategies:

Exercise can improve leg strength and balance, which may help prevent you from falling. Try Tai Chi or yoga to improve your balance.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, impaired vision more than doubles your risk of falling. Even small changes in your vision, like getting new glasses, can cause you to fall. Consult with an optometrist at least once a year to make sure your vision has not changed.

When going outdoors, take your time and proceed slowly. Icy spots on the ground can be difficult to see. You may not know a spot is icy until you have already slipped. You can “test” the potentially slick areas before stepping on them by tapping them with your foot. If you have snow or ice on your walkway, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can use sidewalk salt, sand, or even cat litter to make paths less slippery and provide better traction.