Tips to avoid a winter wipeout
More than 25% of older adults fall every year. Slippery sidewalks, icy driveways, and cold weather add to your risk. Here’s how to navigate more safely so you can stay steady on your feet.
1. Clear the way
Sidewalks, driveways, and steps should be as clear as possible, especially when conditions may turn icy. Avoid a slipping or tripping injury by moving any sticks, rocks, or other debris out of the way before anything ices over. You may need to ask a friend, neighbor, or relative for help, and that’s okay.
2. Add traction to your path
When you’re not at home, it can be harder to control your environment. Whether you like to enjoy a daily walk around the block or you need to get somewhere that’s within walking distance, it’s important to keep your path as slip-proof as possible. A small amount of sand or kitty litter — yes, kitty litter — can go a long way in making your route less slick. Keep a small bag of sand or kitty litter in your coat pocket, and sprinkle it on the ground in front of you as you walk.
3. Wear winter-friendly shoes
When you go shoe shopping, look for shoes with rubber soles. These add traction. You can also put spikeless ice and snow shoe gripper covers on your shoes. And if you use a cane, purchase cane tips made for ice. These will keep your cane steady on icy days.
4. Maintain your fitness
“Staying strong is critical, since people who are weaker are four times as likely to fall as people who are stronger,” says Cynthia J. Brown, M.D. Dr. Brown is the director of the division of gerontology, geriatrics, and palliative care at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. You can improve your strength, balance, and flexibility by doing chair yoga.
