Winter months can be challenging for everyone, and ice, snow and colder weather can cause injuries—especially for seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one third of adults 65 and older fall each year, resulting in injuries or even death.
Below are a few helpful tips to prevent injuries during the colder months:
- Stay inside until the sidewalks and roads are clear
- Wear shoes/boots with good traction
- Replace the rubber tip of your cane before it is worn out
- Have someone shovel and salt walkways if you can’t
- Falls can occur when exiting vehicles. Make sure your footing is clear when exiting a car
- The most important tip is to ask for help. Arrange for rides to the grocery store and doctor's appointments.
In an effort to prevent injuries resulting from falls, Catholic Health Services continues to partner with the Suffolk County Health Department to offer a Fall Prevention Program across Long Island. Called Stepping On, the free seven-week program provides assessments and techniques to avoid falls at home or elsewhere.
For more information, please visit
www.chsli.org or call 1-855-CHS-4500.
