Tips to prevent falls

Two out of three falls occur when someone slips or trips. This is especially true if you live in a climate that includes freezing temperatures in the winter. Cold weather makes it easier to fall and harder to maintain your balance. 

For instance, people slip or trip on: 

• Visibly icy surfaces 

• Black ice, a coating of ice so thin that people think it’s asphalt or pavement 

• Ice that’s covered by snow or snow drifts 

• Unplowed sidewalks and streets 

A fall becomes more dangerous when: 

• Ice and snow makes it difficult to get up 

• Exposure to freezing temperatures compounds the fall or injury 

Fall statistics 

Falls are the number one reason for injury-related Emergency Department visits and accidental deaths in people aged 65 and over. Prevention is key. 

Indoor prevention 

• Remove hazards (bags, baskets, cords and anything in walkways) 

• Good lighting 

• Non-slip rugs 

• Make sure your clothes and shoes fit 

• Bathroom grab bars 

Outdoor prevention 

• Make sure surfaces are clear 

• Use assistance devices for stability (walkers, canes) 

• Dress for the weather 

• Use a path you know 

• Good lighting 

General safety measures 

• Walk with a buddy 

• Carry a cell phone 

• Carry a medical alert system 

• Wear watches with fall sensors 

• Make a daily phone call or check in with a friend, family member or neighbor 

If you fall, soften your landing 

• Flex forward into the fall, which gives you some control over direction. Fall sideways, if possible. 

• Tuck your head and turn your shoulder into the fall to protect your head. 

• Relax everything and fall like a sack of beans. 

• Fall on the soft, fleshy places, like your buttocks and thighs. These areas have more protection and are lower to the ground. 

• As you complete the fall, try to roll to your side in a ball. This will spread the impact to reduce injury and stop you from rolling farther.