8 Winter Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors

Ah, winter. Blizzards, freezing temperatures, visiting the ER because you fell on ice. For kids, winter is an exciting time. They love playing in the snow and sliding around on the ice. For senior citizens, all that ice and snow means an increased chance of slipping and falling.

Here are eight things you can do to make winter a less perilous:

1. Check you footwear. 

Examine your shoes and boots. How's the traction? Is it time for a new pair? Better traction can help keep you more stable on icy surfaces. 

2. Make sure you are equipped with a shovel and salt. 

The reason you need a shovel and salt is so you don't have to walk on a slippery sidewalk. If you have to traverse through the snow and ice to get to your garage where the salt and shovel are kept, that defeats the purpose. 

3. Check the railings. 

If you have railings leading up to your front door, check to see if they are sturdy. If you slipped, would they be able to support you? 

4. Carry a cell phone. 

Bring a cell phone when you leave the house. If you fall, it can sometimes be hard to get p. Carrying a cell phone whenever you go out can bring peace of mind. 

5. Slow down. 

Allow extra time if it's slippery out. It's when you hurry that you end up pushing the envelope of what your balance can handle. Also, keep in mind that being a little late is better than rushing and causing a fall. 

6. Ask for help. 

If you have to walk across an icy sidewalk or parking lot, try to find a steady are to lean on. Most people are happy to help an older person navigate a slippery walkway? You just have to ask. 

7. Have a plan. 

When you are going out, ask yourself, "If I slipped and fell here, what should I do? 

8. Strengthen your legs. 

Strong leg muscles can help you steady yourself if you slip. And if you do fall, they make it a lot easier to get back up. You should exercise your legs regularly to keep them strong. Try walking up and down your stairs repeatedly or do a set of ten squats out of a chair a couple times per week. 

These little things, when used together, can make the winter elements a little less daunting. 

You can also prevent falls with better balance. Senior fitness expert Mike Ross has developed a system of balance exercises for the elderly that can be done at home with no equipment. You can find the exercises in his new book, "The Balance Manual". 

Article Source: http://www.articlebiz.com/article/267888-1-8-winter-fall-prevention-tips-for-seniors/

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