As temperatures drop across Ireland and the frost sets in, keeping our elderly loved ones safe becomes a top priority. A cold snap brings more than just a chill in the air; it significantly increases the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
Whether it’s icy footpaths or stiff joints caused by the cold, winter presents unique challenges. Here is some sound advice to help navigate the cold snap safely and prevent falls this winter.
1. Winter-Proof Your Walkways
The most obvious danger during a cold snap is ice. If you are caring for an elderly relative, or if you live alone, ensure that the path to the front door is clear.
- Clear the way: Regularly sweep away wet leaves, which can become as slippery as ice when frozen.
- Use grit or salt: A bag of rock salt is a winter essential. Sprinkle it on steps and paths the night before a freeze is forecast.
- Check the lighting: Shorter days mean lower visibility. Ensure outdoor sensor lights are working so that no one is walking in the dark.
2. Dress for Stability
Fashion takes a back seat to safety when the ground is frozen.
- Proper Footwear: Wear shoes with non-slip, rubber soles that have deep treads. Avoid smooth-soled shoes even for short trips to the shops.
- Stay Warm: Believe it or not, keeping warm helps prevent falls. Cold muscles and stiff joints react slower to slips. Wearing layers and keeping the home heated (ideally to at least 18°C) helps keep the body agile.
3. Review Mobility Aids
If you or a loved one uses a walking stick or crutches, the cold snap is the critical time to inspect them.
- Check the Ferrule: The rubber tip (ferrule) on the bottom of a walking stick provides the grip. Over time, the tread wears down until it becomes smooth, making it extremely dangerous on wet or frosty ground.
- Replace if Worn: Check the base of the ferrule today. If the concentric rings are worn smooth or the rubber is splitting, replace it immediately to restore proper traction.
4. Indoor Safety is Just as Key
We often focus on the ice outside, but we spend more time indoors during a cold snap.
- Safe Seating: Getting up from a low chair can be a struggle that leads to falls. A riser recliner provides safe, powered assistance to gently lift you to a standing position without strain.
- Powered Mobility: If stiff joints make walking around the house difficult and risky, consider powered mobility. Compact powerchairs designed for indoor use offer stable, safe movement between rooms without exertion.
- Bathroom Safety: The bathroom is a high-risk zone. Grab rails are simple additions that offer huge peace of mind.
5. Keep Moving
It is tempting to hibernate when it is freezing, but staying sedentary can weaken muscles and affect balance.
- Gentle Exercise: Encourage gentle indoor movement or chair exercises to keep circulation flowing and joints mobile.
- Hydration: Dehydration can lead to dizziness and confusion. Even in cold weather, it is vital to drink plenty of water.
We stock a wide range of daily living aids designed to keep you safe and independent. From riser recliners and powered mobility solutions to replacement ferrules and grab rails, we have everything you need to winter-proof your routine
