Let’s Focus This Autumn on Fall Prevention

It’s that time of year when we’re all preparing for the snow and ice that – believe it or not – is right around the corner. So in the spirit of fall, let's talk about fall prevention.

Here are some easy ways to stay safe as we move into winter:

Wear the Right Shoes

Choose a pair of shoes with good traction on the soles as they will work better than your smooth-soled ones. Remember, while that traction on the sole is important, it’s also a great idea to wear shoes that fully support your entire foot, including your heel, and avoid ones with open backs. When you have better foot support, you have better balance – and you’ll reduce your risk of falls.

Watch Out!

Keep an eye out for your surroundings, and make sure you’re aware of where you're walking. Watch for slippery spots and keep track of where you’re placing your feet as you walk. If you see salt or sand, it’s probably there for a reason, so tread carefully. When snow starts to gather on the ground, it’s a better idea to walk in the unpacked snow off to the side. That’s often safer than walking on icy packed snow.

Ask for Help

This may be the hardest rule to apply. But if you feel unsteady, you probably are, and it’s better to ask for help to avoid a fall. Some of us may need a cane or walker to make our walks safer.

Stretch & Exercise

In many cases, we may need to get stronger and more flexible to avoid balance-related falls. Work on stretching and exercise if you want to improve your balance.

A great resource when it comes to regaining good balance is a physical therapist, who can help you regain balance and find the right “balance” of activity to help prevent a fall.