Keep your feet on the ground this winter

The older we get, the bigger our risk of being injured in a fall. And that risk becomes even greater when winter arrives.

Cold weather, ice and snow can turn a few simple steps into an obstacle course and a driveway into a skating rink. For those of us in the Midwest, there’s no stopping winter. But there are things we can do to help keep ourselves and our loved ones avoid a potentially life-changing fall.

1. Tread isn’t just for tires

When it comes time to venture out into the elements, do so in the right footwear. Shoes and boots with rubber soles provide better traction on slippery surfaces. Look for shoes with plenty of tread.

2. Take time for safety

Rushing only increases the chance of ending up on the ground. Allow extra time, whether you’re driving or walking, and always choose the path most traveled. Don’t take short cuts through snow or over icy surfaces.

3. Beware of black ice

Don’t assume that a surface is safe just because it isn’t covered in white. Black ice is just as slippery, but harder to see.

4. Take the path most traveled

This is one time when you want to follow the crowd. Always choose the cleared path, plowed street or shoveled sidewalk.

5. Shuffle your way to safety

If you must traverse a slippery or snow-covered surface, do so with baby steps. Shuffle a few inches at a time, without actually picking your feet up off the ground. It will help to maintain balance and stability.

6. Sideways advance

When walking up or down an incline that’s coated with ice or snow, turn sideways, then take a step with the foot that is leading, and bring the other foot alongside it. Just be careful not to cross your feet.

7. Season well

Keep a small container of salt or ice melt by each door of the house and sprinkle the area outside before venturing out. Keep another in the car and toss a handful on the ground before getting out of the car.

8. Light your way

Be sure outdoor lights are in proper working order. One thing more dangerous than a slippery porch is a dark, slippery porch.

9. Use a lifeline

Older adults should always keep a cell phone or electronic medical alert device with them, even when stepping out to get the mail. The same rule applies to canes and walkers. They should be used for every trip outdoors, no matter how short.

10. Grab a rail, take a hand

If a handrail is available, use it. Families and caregivers should be sure that sturdy handrails are available outside every door to their loved one’s home.

11. Don’t be a do-it-yourselfer

Everyone wants to be independent, but a slippery sidewalk isn’t the place. Let friends and family take over the duties of clearing ice and snow. If they aren’t available, hire a professional to do the job. The cost is sure to be less than the price of a fall.

Mary Doepke, RN, is president and co-owner of Home Helpers of Hinsdale, providers of in-home care and assistance to elders and others in need of help. Home Helpers of Hinsdale is the only home care agency in the Chicago area to earn an A+ rating from the Home Care Standards Bureau. Mary and the company’s full staff of caring professionals can be reached at (630) 323-7231 or at HomeHelpers1@comcast.net.