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While winter is synonymous with holidays and happy times spent with family, for the elderly, the season poses a much higher risk of falling due to cold weather and icy conditions. According to the National Council of Aging, an elderly adult is treated for a fall every 11 seconds, and fatal falls occur every 19 seconds. Whether they’re in an assisted living or senior living community, here’s how to stay proactive and prepare for falls this winter.

How to Avoid Falling Accidents in Winter

1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

Many times, falls can be prevented by avoiding hazardous weather conditions. Before leaving the house, check the conditions outside. Light snow may be fine to walk through, but rain and snow combined with freezing temperatures could easily translate to dangerous sleet or slippery black ice. If they’re currently in assisted living, they may ask for help mapping out a safer route to their destination.

2. Wear Appropriate Footwear

assisted livingThe elderly may have age-related muscular or joint issues that affect their balance. Make sure your loved one wears weather-appropriate shoes that address their individual problems. Rubber soles with thick tracking, for example, can help with treading through hard snow. For some adults, footwear may include orthotics that will make walking less painful and improve balance.

3. Participate in Fall Prevention Programs

Seniors can also prevent falls in the winter by staying active throughout the year. Exercise and similar activities will increase their body awareness, overall strength, and balance. Today, there are many evidence-based programs available for seniors to help them become more active and aware of their bodies. These free and low-cost programs address issues including joint pain and stiffness. Those who live in assisted living or senior living facilities may already have programs available on-site that help increase exercise activity and reduce falling incidences.

 

For 40 years, family-owned and -operated GrandeVille Senior Living Community has provided quality care and services for less than incorporated assisted living facilities. They service Greater Rochester, NY, including Wayne, Ontario, Livingston, Orleans, and Genesee counties as well as the Finger Lakes region. They provide assisted living, enhanced assisted living, and memory care along with adult day care and short-term residencies at an all-inclusive cost. If you or an aging loved one is thinking about hiring a home health care provider, call (585) 621-6160 today to schedule a tour or visit their website for more information.

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