Winter brings more than just chilly air and snow-covered streets – it also increases the risk of falls for older adults. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death for seniors in the U.S. Each year, at least 10% of patients treated for fall-related injuries in emergency rooms require hospitalization. With the added challenges of ice and slippery surfaces, it’s no surprise that older adults are more likely to fall during the winter than any other time of year.

Understanding Fall Risks

To reduce the likelihood of falls, it’s important to recognize the most common risk factors:

• Reduced Mobility: Muscle weakness and joint issues can affect balance.
• Poor Vision: Difficulty seeing obstacles can increase fall likelihood.
• Hazardous Conditions: Snowy sidewalks, icy steps, and slippery entryways create dangerous environments.
• Inadequate Footwear: Shoes without proper traction exacerbate the risk.

The Role of Caregivers in Reducing the Risk of Falls

While these risks are significant, the good news is there are ways to help reduce the likelihood of falls from occurring. With the right precautions and support, older adults can navigate the challenges of winter more safely. That’s where caregivers can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of falls. Whether it’s helping with mobility, assisting during outdoor trips, or ensuring the home remains safe, having an extra set of hands can make a meaningful difference.

“Wintertime can often create challenging situations for people of all ages, but particularly older adults who are more susceptible to falls,” said Rachel Sanford, a Registered Nurse and Director of Nursing for Family & Nursing Care Select. “That’s why it can be especially helpful to have someone else on hand, like a caregiver, to assist with mobility when facing potential treacherous outdoor conditions. Not only can caregivers help prepare older adults for their environment, but they can ensure proper footwear is worn, mobility aids are being used, and they can even assist and encourage physical activity in the first place to help strengthen muscles.”

The Family & Nursing Care Difference

Family & Nursing Care is a longtime leader in providing access to best-in-class home care for older adults. Our network of professionally certified caregivers has extensive experience supporting clients’ overall well-being, including mobility assistance such as helping clients get up, walking, transferring into or out of bed, and range of motion exercises so they can maintain their independence and participate in activities that enhance their quality of life.

At Family & Nursing Care, we understand the importance of proactive support to keep older adults safe during the colder months. Our team is available 24/7 365 days a year to help clients get access to experienced caregivers who can assist with mobility assistance and other services that prioritize safety. To learn more about our services and how caregivers can help you or a loved one stay safe this winter, visit the Mobility Assistance page on our website.

As the cheer from the holiday season fades and the weather turns colder, the brisk temperatures and reduced daylight can often exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation among older adults. This is particularly concerning considering the health consequences, with isolation leading to a 29% increased risk of heart disease, 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services. What’s more, the rate of older adults in the U.S. facing social isolation has increased every year since 1976, and today senior loneliness accounts for $6.7 billion in excess Medicare spending each year.

Recognizing these harmful effects, it can’t be overstated how important social interaction is for older adults to improve their well-being, especially during winter. That’s where companionship from a caregiver can make all the difference by providing:

• Emotional Support: Having someone with whom to talk and share experiences can provide crucial emotional support, especially during challenging times.
• Improved Physical Health: Caregivers can motivate older adults to stay active and engage in physical activities, even during colder weather.
• Mental Stimulation: Spending time with caregivers can provide mental stimulation through conversation, shared activities, and games, which can help maintain cognitive function.
• Sense of Belonging: Feeling connected to others through social interactions combats feelings of loneliness and strengthens a sense of belonging.

The Family & Nursing Care Difference

Family & Nursing Care is one of the oldest and most well-respected resources for private duty home care in the Mid-Atlantic region. We pride ourselves on offering access to empathetic, personal companion care that helps clients feel valued, secure, and connected to the community. Some ways caregivers can help combat feeling isolated or lonely includes:

• General Companionship: In addition to helping clients with meeting nutritional needs, personal care, and appointments, caregivers can become close confidants and provide older adults with an outlet and space to share feelings, thoughts, and stories. Loneliness can be curbed with something as simple as sharing a meal or having regular conversations. Caregivers and clients often develop a connection like that of a friend or family member.
• Social Access: Mobility issues can inhibit social interaction, but you can leave those worries behind! A professional caregiver can accompany clients to the dining room, social events and get togethers, including senior clubs, knitting circles, and more, offering tons of opportunities to connect with potential new friends.

“The winter can often be an isolating time of year for everyone, but especially older adults. That’s why it’s important to prioritize social connections, which can help improve your health and well-being,” said Kelly Salb, Vice President of Client Services for Family & Nursing Care. “One great way to help increase human connection is through the companionship of a caregiver – not only can an experienced caregiver support daily living activities, but that person can also serve as a shoulder to lean on if needed.”

Living independently doesn’t have to mean feeling alone, and now is a great time to decide to spend more time with a companion or in the community. Family & Nursing Care offers access to a range of care services to help with this and ensure human connection. To learn more, visit the Home Care Services or Contact Us pages on our website.