Outdoor Fall Prevention

Senior Thursday

In a previous post, we talked about senior safety in the home. Among the most common causes of injuries in the home are falls. But according to researchers, almost 50% of falls among the elderly population occur outdoors.

Fortunately, we can take steps to avoid falls in the home. That isn't as easy outside, where the property belongs to someone else. There are some things seniors can do, though, to help prevent falls outside the home.

• Don't drive or go outside when under the influence of medications that cause drowsiness or dizziness.
• Use a cane or walker for support.
• Wear rubber-soled shoes for good traction.
• Don't go outside in bad weather, such as snow, ice or rain.
• If you are outside in bad weather, walk on grass if the sidewalks are slippery.
• Have salt or kitty litter in your car in case you are in in your car when it starts to snow. Sprinkle it on sidewalks or parking lots where you need to walk.
• Be alert to your surroundings, taking note of uneven or high steps, slick floors or broken concrete.
• Businesses place down mats during the winter to absorb the water. Watch for uneven surfaces, and turned up corners.
• When in doubt, stay where you are and call for a ride.