With more snow on the way, this is often the time of year when we physiotherapists see an increased risk of falling, in particular among the older population. In fact, according to a study from the Government of Canada (Canada.ca), it was reported that as many as 34% of the Canadian population aged 65 and older are worried about falling, which leads to up to 44% of them choosing to decrease their level of physical activity in an attempt to prevent a fall. However, decreasing your activities can lead to other health issues, so here are some tips and tricks to try and avoid possible falls while remaining active:
- Wear the right winter clothing and footwear
- Change your walking style, try walking slower and with a wider base than normal
- Be cautious and take extra time to get to places so you aren’t stuck rushing
- Maintain good exercise habits and try to incorporate balance training into your workout regimen
To get started on a personalized exercise program and remain active during the winter months, or if you’ve suffered an injury and need to consult a physiotherapist, call us and schedule an appointment today!
Federico D’Agnillo, pht