Cold Weather – Slips, Trips & Falls

Each year worldwide 37.3 million people experience a fall, of those an estimated 646,000 die from their fall related injuries.

Bodily changes that occur as you age may affect personal safety.

• Balance deteriorates due to the weakening of the muscles and change in sensory perception
• Aging dissolves cells in the nervous system, resulting in delayed reflexes

Many winter related injuries can be successfully avoided or their impact lessened by doing the following:

• Check your footwear making sure it is appropriate for conditions
• Keep a shovel and ice melting agent in your house
• Check your railings
• Bring a cell phone when you leave the house
• Slow down, take your time
• Ask for help if you feel uncomfortable with conditions
• Have a plan
• Exercise, exercise, exercise