Last week the Old Farmers’ Almanac released its forecast predictions for the upcoming winter. The 224-year-old publication predicts that after this long hot summer much of the United States will endure a cold winter with above normal snowfall.
According to the almanac’s website, the publication uses a “secret” formula for forecasting that includes sunspots, tides, planetary positions, climatology and meteorology.
Although the “Old Farmers’ Almanac” and rival publication “The Farmers’ Almanac” are some of the oldest periodicals in the United States, many meteorologists are skeptics regarding the accuracy of predictions made by them.
Despite the questionable accuracy of winter weather predictions, the combination of increased precipitation (rain or snow) and fallen leaves makes fall and winter particularly dangerous seasons for falls for our vulnerable elderly loved ones.
You may be thinking “its only August, why are they already talking about winter fall prevention?”
The fact of matter is that it is never too early to take preventative measures regarding fall prevention. The following tips will not only help reduce your elderly loved ones chances of experiencing a fall but also reduce their chances of experiencing an injury in case they do happen to slip.
Exercise
The old adage is true; if you don’t use it you lose it. While the weather is still good it is a great time to keep your elderly loved one active. Taking walks is a great way to strengthen the muscles needed to keep you upright. Balance exercises are another great way to reduce the risk of a fall.
Get a Check Up
There are many physical factors that can affect ones likelihood of experiencing a fall. Scheduling a seasonal check up will help ensure your loved one is healthy and well prepared for the coming season. Make sure the doctor checks eyesight, hearing, feet and bone strength, as these are the most likely culprits for increased fall risks.
Fix Walkways
Whether it is inside or outside, make sure all walkways your elderly loved one normally uses are in good repair, well lit and free of clutter. Fix any cracks, uneven surfaces and loose carpet to help lower the chance of a fall.
Practice Falling
This may sound funny but knowing how to safely fall will reduce your loved ones chance of experiencing an injury in the off chance that they do fall. You may want to check out this blog for more tips regarding safe falling practices.
Use SmartCells Fall Protection Products
SmartCells fall protection mats and flooring employ a unique dual-stiffness technology that provides a stable, safe surface for standing, walking, wheeling and transferring, while at the same time protects with significant cushioning in case of a slip or fall.
SmartCells fall-protection mats are safe and elegant. They combine style and quality with molded-in beveled edges and allow wheeled objects to easily roll over them.
SmartCells fall protection mats are constructed of material that will not absorb liquid offering a practical solution to infection control issues. SmartCells fall-protection flooring acts as an underlayment for many choices of standard floor covering, so you won’t even know it’s there, until a fall occurs.
SmartCells Fall Protection: We’ll be there when you can’t be.