Preventing Falls During Winter Months

Snowing in the City

It’s December, that time of year when we bundle up for our morning commutes, order our coffee extra hot, and scrape the frost and snow off our vehicles. As the temperature decreases, unexpected falls increase, so this winter, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to be mindful of the elements.

Here are some safety tips for preventing falls this winter:

  • Slow down while going from place to place
  • Keep your hands free and eyes vigilant
  • Wear appropriate shoes in accordance with weather conditions
  • Plan ahead and stay up to date with your local weather station
  • Remove snow from walking surfaces as soon as possible

If you wish to see a more detailed list, please click on the following link 

Slippery sidewalks and icy railings are not the only culprits that can lead to an accidental tumble. According to the CDC, the following conditions make you more susceptible to falling: lower body weakness, Vitamin D deficiency, foot pain or poor footwear, as well as use of certain medicines such as tranquilizers, sedatives, or antidepressants. Even some over-the-counter medicines can affect your balance the steadiness of your feet.

To help counteract the increasing number of falls each year experienced by older adults, the CDC has created the “STEADI Initiative” to help older adults, with the assistance of their primary care physician, decrease the chances of accidental falls.

STEADI consists of three core elements: Screen, Assess, and Intervene, to reduce fall risk by giving older adults tailored guidance. You may visit this website to access STEADI’s materials regarding their fall-prevention guidelines.

To maintain your quality of life, it is important to talk to your doctor, have your eyes checked, do strength and balance exercises, and proactively make your home safer.

Please consult the following links for further information.

CDC Adult Falls

Boston Public Health Commission

Scan Health Plan

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