Falls can happen in and around the home amid our daily routine. With the weather warming up and our desire to get some sunshine on your face, here are some tips to help prevent falls outdoors when walking to stay active, doing yard work, or running errands.
Be aware of where and when you walk
Some additional reminders to maintain walking distance during this time:
While there may be more challenges to getting in our steps during this "stay at home" order we hope these tips will help you prevent a fall from occurring and encourage you if you choose to take a walk outdoors. For more tips on preventing falls visit the Stopfalls.org website.
Written by Jessica Shupp-Enes, Fitness Program Coordinator
Resources: http://stopfalls.org/
Image:https://www.sfexaminer.com/features/whos-to-blame-for-an-uneven-sidewalk/
Be aware of where and when you walk
- Walk in areas with plenty of lighting, especially in the evening.
- Be aware of your surroundings, such as, fallen leaves, tree roots, cracks in the sidewalk, curbs, holes, and uneven sidewalk.
- Hold hand rails and move slowly when climbing stairs.
- Be cautious during and after stormy weather. Rain can make any surface slippery.
- Walk in crosswalks and use curb cuts or ramps when crossing the street.
- Remember to wear correct eye wear when walking. Wear bifocals or reading glasses on bright days to reduce glare.
Some additional reminders to maintain walking distance during this time:
- Stay 6 feet away from people on the sidewalk.
- When preparing to pass someone be vigilant about moving feet away rather than inches, like we were used to.
- We may need to get off the sidewalk entirely to let someone pass.
- Remember the grass can be an uneven surface and cause a fall.
- Find a time when not a lot of neighbors are out walking.
- Cross the street on the other side of the road.
- Single file line if walking with a family member from the same household.
While there may be more challenges to getting in our steps during this "stay at home" order we hope these tips will help you prevent a fall from occurring and encourage you if you choose to take a walk outdoors. For more tips on preventing falls visit the Stopfalls.org website.
Written by Jessica Shupp-Enes, Fitness Program Coordinator
Resources: http://stopfalls.org/
Image:https://www.sfexaminer.com/features/whos-to-blame-for-an-uneven-sidewalk/