Our Top Tips for Preventing and Avoiding Falls in Autumn and Winter
Autumn and Winter Fall Prevention
By Jennifer Footit-Tank RN BSN, quality care coordinator at Network Health
10/13/2023
When we think about fall prevention, we tend to focus on the inside of our home, where furniture, power cords and slick bathroom floors present numerous fall hazards. But what about our yards? With the cooler weather starting, it is the perfect time of year to examine outdoor safety so you can stay active while avoiding risks of trips and falls.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of common problem areas around the exterior of your home and some of the hazards you should watch out for.
Fall-Proof Your Outdoor Surfaces
The first thing you’ll want to do is to make sure the surfaces you’ll be walking on outside are in proper shape to keep you surefooted and upright. In some respects, these can be treated much like the floors inside your home by keeping them clutter-free, but outdoor surfaces also come with their own unique hazards.
Pathways
- Look for loose pavers or uneven surfaces that could cause you to trip.
- Wet leaves can be as slippery as ice. Remove fallen leaves regularly.
- Toss kitty litter or sand on pavement to provide more traction.
Decks and Patios
- Just like in the house, keep pathways clutter-free and wide.
- Keep the area free from wet, slippery leaves and ice or snow.
Lighting
- Shorter daylight hours mean less light. Have patio or deck lights so you can see as dusk and night approach. Don’t forget to light the stairs as well.
- Have a bright light at door entrances to prevent tripping when you return home.
Did You Know?
Each year, 3 million older people are treated in the ER for fall injuries.
Other Outdoor Fall Prevention Tips for Autumn and Winter
1. Keep your head up
Don’t keep your eyes on your feet. Keep looking up and forward so you can see any potential hazards while you enjoy the scenery.
2. Dress for the weather
Wear winter gear that is appropriate for the temperature but not so bulky that your movements are restricted. Wear well-fitting boots with rubber soles for good traction.
3. Winterize your home
Cleaning gutters is a must this time of year. But climbing can be a falls risk. Always use a ladder that is designed for the task, always keep three limbs on the ladder (two feet and one arm), don’t reach too far to either side of the ladder and keep the center of your stomach between the ladder sides.
4. Change how you walk
You may have heard to walk like a penguin when navigating slippery pavement. It’s best to take it slow, widen your stance, and shuffle or waddle as you walk forward. Stay alert for black ice.
5. Get out of your car carefully
Parking lots are notorious for being icy. Make sure you have both feet on the ground and a steady grip on the doorframe before getting out of your car.
6. Use ice-free equipment
If you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair for outdoor mobility, keep your equipment free from ice and snow to prevent slippage. Dry equipment will provide a better grip with the surface you are walking on.
7. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Always remember to walk with someone else or carry a phone, smart watch or personal emergency response system. In case you do fall, you want to be sure that you can get help.
Keeping these suggestions in mind during autumn and winter will help keep you on your feet, independent and safe. If you experience a fall, make sure to follow up with your medical provider for an evaluation to make sure there is no injury and to review ways to prevent it from happening again.
[More: What to Do If You Fall Down]
