Prevent slips, falls and injuries in older adults this winter

November 27, 2024

Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings challenges, especially for older adults. Slippery sidewalks, icy steps and cold weather can increase the risk of a fall and fall-related injuries.

Falls cause 85 per cent of injury-related hospitalizations in those 65 years of age and older. Over one-third of these individuals are admitted to long-term care after a fall.1

Here are some essential tips to help older adults prevent falls during the winter months:

  • Wear Non-Slip Footwear: Choose boots with good traction and non-slip soles. Footwear with insulated and waterproof features can also help keep feet warm and dry
  • Clear Walkways: Regularly shovel snow and apply salt or sand to walkways, driveways and steps. If needed, ask for assistance from family, friends, neighbours, or available community services to help keep these areas clear and reduce the risk of falls
  • Wear layers to stay warm without restricting movement and with reflective materials in order to be seen. Wearing a hat, gloves, and scarf can help maintain body heat. Avoid long scarves that can get caught or cause tripping
  • Check the weather forecast and avoid going out in icy or snowy conditions. If you must go out, plan your route to avoid steep or slippery areas and allow extra time to reach your destination safely

For more information and resources about healthy aging and fall prevention, download the Winter Safety Tips For Older Adults fact sheet and visit york.ca/HealthyAging

Reference

Public Health Agency of Canada. Seniors' falls in Canada: second report [Internet]. Ottawa, ON: Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada; 2014 [cited 2024 Sept 12]. Available from: https://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/publications/public/injury-blessure/seniors_falls-chutes_aines/assets/pdf/seniors_falls-chutes_aines-eng.pdf