Winter in Connecticut brings more than cold temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks. For older adults and individuals recovering from illness or injury, icy conditions significantly increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Each winter, fall-related injuries lead to thousands of emergency department visits across the state, many of which could be prevented with advance planning and simple precautions.
At skilled nursing care centers such as Touchpoints at Chestnut in East Windsor, winter is a season of heightened awareness. Clinical and rehabilitation teams often see an increase in fall-related injuries following snowstorms, freezing rain, or rapid temperature changes that leave walkways slick. Falls are rarely caused by a single issue, clinicians note, but rather by a combination of environmental hazards, reduced balance or strength, poor visibility, and improper footwear.
Preparation before heading outdoors can significantly reduce risk. Wearing sturdy shoes with non-slip soles, allowing extra time when traveling, and using handrails or mobility aids when needed can help individuals stay steady on icy surfaces. Rushing, especially in winter conditions, is a common contributor to falls, particularly when surfaces appear deceptively clear.
Indoor spaces require equal attention. Snow and ice tracked inside can create slippery floors near entryways, while cluttered walkways increase the chance of tripping. Rehabilitation teams recommend keeping pathways clear and ensuring adequate lighting, particularly as daylight hours shorten during the winter months.
Despite these precautions, winter falls do occur, and they often result in fractures, joint injuries, or mobility setbacks that require focused rehabilitation. At Touchpoints at Chestnut, therapy teams regularly work with individuals recovering from fall-related injuries, including hip fractures, wrist fractures, and soft tissue injuries. Physical and occupational therapists focus on restoring strength, improving balance, and helping patients safely relearn daily activities such as walking, dressing, and navigating stairs. Therapy also addresses the underlying causes of the fall, whether related to muscle weakness, gait instability, or the need for adaptive equipment, with the goal of reducing the risk of repeat injuries once individuals return home.
Medications may also contribute to fall risk, particularly those that cause dizziness, fatigue, or changes in blood pressure. Healthcare providers encourage regular medication reviews during the winter months and prompt reporting of new or worsening symptoms.
As winter continues, awareness and preparation remain the strongest tools for prevention. By planning ahead, maintaining strength and balance, and responding promptly when injuries occur, individuals and families can reduce the impact of winter falls and remain safely connected to their community throughout the season.
Learn more about Physical Therapy and Rehab Services at Touchpoints at Chestnut by clicking here…