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Walk into Winter with a Physio!

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 17/11/2023 (777 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Don’t let a fall get you down this winter.

The Public Health Agency of Canada reports that the leading cause of injury in seniors in Canada are falls. Approximately 20-30% of older adults have at least one fall per year with many of these falls leading to hospitalization for hip fractures and other serious injuries.

Sadly, over one third of seniors admitted to the hospital due to a fall will end up in long term care. So let’s keep our communities safe and try to prevent a fall by following a few helpful tips from a Physiotherapist this winter!

Follow these easy tips to have a safer winter:

1. Wear high-traction shoes when outdoors, increased grip can help to secure your footing. Snow grips on your shoes will decrease your chance of falling even further.
2. Take your time when walking. Smaller steps will help you maintain your balance better. Allow for additional time to get to your destination. Walk like a penguin with side-to-side steps.
3. Use poles if unsteady. Hold onto stair railings. Use your cane or walker.
4. Walk in designated areas like sidewalks as they are more likely to be cleared. Test areas that might be slippery by tapping your foot in front of you first.
5. Try to keep your hands free to help maintain your balance. Don’t walk and text!
6. Check the weather ahead for expected conditions.
7. Take your cell phone with you or wear an alert system in case of an emergency.
8. When getting out of a vehicle, swing both feet out the door while still seated. Then while holding onto the car for extra support, stand up on both feet at once. When getting off a bus, exit near the front so the bus driver can lower the bus for a safer exit.
9. Remove snow from outside your home (porch, stairs, walkway) as soon as possible. If unable to do it yourself, have someone else do it for you. Spread sand or salt to reduce slippery areas.
10. Be sure to do some strength and balance training, regardless of your age. While not all falls are preventable, exercises that focus on balance and strength training can reduce the risk of falling. No matter our age, balance needs to be practiced!

Talk to your Physiotherapist today and find out how they can work with you to reach your balance goals this winter. Let your local physiotherapist help you plan your path to a stronger, safer and more independent way of life as you age!

Be sure to visit www.mbphysio.org to find a Physio near you.