Winter weather often brings slippery conditions due to snow, slush and ice, which can make falls more likely. While this may create minor hazards for some, for older adults falls can have devastating consequences. In the winter months, keeping walkways free of ice and snow and ensuring they are properly salted can help prevent slips. Leaning on caregivers, friends or a paid service to help maintain your property will ensure it is properly cared for throughout the season. Using handrails when available and wearing proper footwear can also help prevent you from falling. Exercise programs that promote better balance and build strength can also help you stay steady on your feet.
Preventing slips and falls during the winter
Featured Resources
- Blog Post: Watch your step! Fall prevention for seniors living in the community
- Blog Post: Avoid falls with these 3 simple tips
- Blog Post: Feeling unsteady? Exercise can help prevent falls in long-term care
- Blog Post: Exercise programs can help reduce falls and prevent injuries
- Web Resource Rating: Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls
- Web Resource Rating: Are You at Risk of Falling?
- Web Resource Rating: New tricks for old bones
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Many of our Blog Posts were written before the COVID-19 pandemic and thus do not necessarily reflect the latest public health recommendations. While the content of new and old blogs identify activities that support optimal aging, it is important to defer to the most current public health recommendations. Some of the activities suggested within these blogs may need to be modified or avoided altogether to comply with changing public health recommendations. To view the latest updates from the Public Health Agency of Canada, please visit their website.
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