With winter weather here we start to think about icy sidewalks and parking lots, which increase the risk of falling. While the winter weather does present unique challenges, it is important to remain aware that we are all at risk of falling, both indoors and out, all year round.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada falls are the second leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations for all ages, after motor vehicle collisions. The fall-related injury rate is nine times greater among seniors than among those less than 65 years of age. Seniors who fall are more likely to suffer fractures and other serious injuries that may affect their ability to live independently.
It is important that we all stop and think about what we can do to prevent a fall and preventing falls is especially important with advanced age. There are some steps that we can take to try and prevent falling:
- Keep physically active and enjoy a healthy diet
- Wear comfortable shoes that offer good support
- Use a rubber bath mat in your shower and take care when entering or exiting the shower
- Keep clutter in your home to a minimum
- Make sure there is adequate lighting
- Avoid scatter mats as they are easy to trip on
- Keep eyeglasses and hearing aids in good repair and wear as directed
- Ensure that ice and snow are removed from walkways and make arrangements to have these areas maintained if you are unable to do
- Ask for assistance with tasks that may increase your risk of falls, tasks like getting items from shelves that you have difficulty reaching
All of us can play a part in falls prevention. If you are able, assist senior relatives and neighbors with snow removal and other tasks that may be risky for them to undertake.
Let’s all work together to stay safe!
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