Smart Steps to Prevent Winter Falls
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted November 7, 2024
As the holidays quickly approach—bringing with them a flurry of shopping trips and festive errands—Mother Nature often decides to toss us an extra challenge: ice and snow.
A winter wonderland is beautiful, but it can turn your simple errand into a treacherous adventure.
And while falls are serious at any age, they can be debilitating or even deadly in our senior years.
But there are some simple steps you can take to SLASH your risk of taking an unexpected tumble, regardless of your age…
The statistics are sobering.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one million U.S. adults suffer injuries resulting from slips and falls, yearly.
Naturally, those numbers SPIKE as temperatures plummet.
But here’s the thing. You don’t have to let a fear of falls keep you from doing the things you love all winter. The following are a few smart strategies…
- Boot Up for Safety: Your choice of footwear can make or break your winter walking experience. Be sure you have a pair of lightweight boots with good support. You can also purchase snow grips or ice cleats for the bottom of your shoes or boots to head off falls.
- Channel Your Inner Penguin: When walking on ice take a cue from our tuxedoed friends in the Antarctic. Take small, side-to-side “waddling” steps like a penguin to help maintain your center of gravity.
- Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Speed is not your friend in icy conditions. Pay attention to each step you take and walk slowly. Remember, it’s better to arrive at your destination a few minutes late than to not arrive at all.
- Lend Yourself a Hand: Don’t be too proud to accept a little help. Use handrails, a walking stick, walker, or a cane when out in winter weather. These aids provide extra stability and can be a lifesaver on slippery surfaces, preventing falls before they even start.
- Sometimes, Staying In is Winning: On particularly treacherous days, the safest option is to stay put if you can. Use these days to catch up on indoor activities or simply enjoy a cozy day in.
But what if you do fall?
Despite our best efforts, sometimes falls happen. If you feel yourself going down and can’t regain your balance, resist the urge to catch yourself with an outstretched arm and try to land on your buttocks or back. This might sound counterintuitive, but it can help prevent more severe injuries like broken wrists or arms.
Broken bones are sometimes hard to recognize so it’s always wise to head to urgent care to have yourself checked out after a fall.
Remember, winter safety is all about preparation and mindfulness Following these expert tips can dramatically reduce your risk of falls and injuries, allowing you to enjoy the upcoming holidays without the emergency room visit.
P.S. “Bear Hack” helps you stay healthy all fall and winter long.
Source:
Kakara, R. S., Moreland, B. L., Haddad, Y. K., Shakya, I., & Bergen, G. (2021). Seasonal variation in fall-related emergency department visits by location of fall – United States, 2015. Journal of Safety Research, 79, 38-44.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The $1000 Weight-Loss Secret Your Body Makes for FREE
Weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have become household names. These injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs have captured widespread attention, with celebrity endorsements and social media success stories highlighting their dramatic results. But here’s what those glossy headlines aren’t telling you… GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released by your gut. It acts as...
Brain Fog? Your Thermostat Could Be the SURPRISING Culprit
Cranking up the heat in winter or blasting the AC in summer can send your utility bills soaring. So, it’s no surprise that many of us choose to grit our teeth and endure it. But that could be a huge mistake. New research reveals that extreme indoor temperatures don’t just make you uncomfortable—they could be...
Nature's Powerful COVID-19 Defense REVEALED
While Big Pharma scrambles to cash in on new COVID-19 treatments, Mother Nature already has powerful allies waiting in the wings. A groundbreaking review in the journal Nutrients revealed a secret that Big Pharma won’t advertise—common herbs and supplements could ease mild COVID-19 symptoms. And the best part? You won’t need a prescription or to...
Women, Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs!
I’ve spent decades in medicine, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that women are tough as nails. They’re pros at pushing through discomfort and brushing off warning signs. But that strength can also be their biggest health risk. Feeling tired? Well, of course—after all, you’re juggling a million things! Short of breath? It...
5 Warning Signs Men Should NEVER Ignore!
Men—listen up. I know you pride yourself on being tough. You insist on pushing through and refuse to make a fuss about “every little ache and pain.” But here’s the cold, hard truth… That tough guy act? It could KILL you. As a doctor I get an unwanted first-row seat to some hard-learned lessons. Hardly...
Mailbag: Is Your Gut Secretly Attacking Your Joints?
“Can a leaky gut cause sudden onset arthritis? My wife has developed arthritis over a 2-month period that is almost debilitating at this point, and she has constant diarrhea. Are these symptoms connected in some way?” -Leaky and Lost Hi Lost, When my patients ask me about leaky gut, my answer is always the same: “It’s...
“Brain Brew” SLASHES Dementia Risk
If you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you know I’m a coffee fan. There are plenty of good reasons to stay that way. In fact, I shared a reason just last week. But I’ve also made room in my life for another hot beverage—and that’s green tea. Now, new research suggests it was a...
Nature's New Mood Booster? (It's Already in Your Kitchen!)
Scientists uncovered something surprising hiding in plain sight in our kitchens. And it might turn out to be nature’s answer to fighting depression. The best part? You’re probably already eating it… Let’s find out. An exciting new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reveals that naturally occurring spermidine could help keep the blues...
Coffee Mug Hack Could Head Off Cancer
If you’re a coffee lover, it doesn’t get much better than that first cup of morning coffee. But before you reach for your favorite mug, I have some news that might make that java taste EVEN better. A new study finds your coffee habit could protect you from one of the world’s most common cancers…...
WALK Away from Cancer? Study Says “Yes!”
When you’re battling cancer, the LAST thing you need is more questionable advice. Yet a parade of well-meaning folks will insist you must do everything from running marathons to moving to a Greek island in order to outsmart the disease. But what if something as simple as a daily walk could give you the extra...