Avoiding Winter Fall Hazards

Severe winter weather and conditions can increase your risk of falling. Falls are not a normal part of aging, but as we age, we may be more susceptible to serious injury from a fall. However, most falls can be prevented when you understand your risks and take steps to remove or avoid hazards.

Ice and Snow

The most obvious threat for falls during the winter is ice and snow. While anyone can slip or fall on icy and snowy walkways, seniors are especially vulnerable. Injuries can include concussions, severe bruising, muscle sprains, broken bones and back injuries.

• Wear boots and shoes that fit properly and have soles with good traction.
• Slow down and give yourself extra time to get where you're going.
• Make sure steps leading into your home have sturdy handrails that can support you if you slip.
• Watch for slippery surfaces ahead of you. Keep your head up and use your eyes to look down.
• Don't try to walk in more than an inch of snow. Deeper accumulations can cause you to trip.
• Be mindful of slippery or icy surfaces that may be hard to see. Use extra caution near water runoff areas such as downspouts, landscaping, parking ramps and outdoor stairwells because of the possibility of black ice.
• When in doubt, ask for help.

Reduced Activity

Your body needs exercise year-round to prevent falls. Ask your doctor about indoor exercises that can help you build and maintain balance, strength and stamina when you can't venture out.

“Evidence-based classes, such as A Matter of Balance or Stepping-On, are great classes anyone can take to learn how to keep your activity and strength up as more people stay inside during the winter months,” said Brice Atherton, MS, NBC-HWC, CSCS, Health Education Specialist at Franciscan Health Indianapolis.

Tripping Hazards

Things we do to keep our homes warm in winter can create tripping hazards. Keep space heaters, cords and blankets out of walkways. If you must use throw rugs on cold floors, secure them to the floor with tape. Get more tips for watching indoor fall hazards.

Winter Clothing

Coats, gloves, hats and other winter clothing are designed to keep us warm, but items that are bulky could catch on objects and increase your risk of falling.

Power Outages

Ice and snow can cause the power to go out, which can limit your ability to see obstacles.

Less Sunlight

Invest in extra lamps, nightlights and exterior pathway lights to make sure you can always see where you are walking, especially around doorways and stairs. Use the highest-wattage bulbs recommended for your fixtures.

Growing Confidence In Healthy Aging

It is not uncommon for people to develop a fear of falling as we age. Fear can limit activities, which increases the risk of falling. Franciscan Health offers A Matter of Balance classes and Stepping-On classes, which are multi week courses that are evidence-based that help view falling as controllable. Visit our classes listing to learn more.