Best Shoes to Prevent Falls and Other Spring and Summer Fall Prevention Tips

Spring and Summer Fall Prevention

Contributed by Jennifer Footit-Tank RN BSN, quality care coordinator at Network Health
3/22/2023

It’s been a long winter and with the warm winds comes the urge to get outside, enjoy the sunshine and get your yard ready for summer activities. Before you do that, however, think about your prevention strategy for slips and falls. The ice and snow will have melted away but that doesn’t mean the risk of falling has too.

The spring and summer months bring their own dangers when it comes to the potential for falling and getting injured. Before enjoying your outdoor adventures, remember to take a survey of your yard and front steps for safety issues that could cause a fall. Below are several tips, from wearing the best shoes to handling festival crowds, to help you with preventing falls this spring and summer.

Slippery Surfaces You Might Encounter During the Warmer Months

When you think of slippery outdoor surfaces, you may think primarily of snow- or ice-covered walkways. Winter weather undoubtedly causes huge problems for fall prevention, but so can the rainy weather that comes throughout the rest of the year. In some ways, rain can be even worse. You may let your guard down in a way that you don’t with winter weather. Here are some potentially slippery surfaces to watch out for as the weather warms up.

• Wet decks and patios
• Surfaces that contain standing water or are near a body of water such as a lake, pond or pool
• Any surface recently impacted by a storm, as leaves and branches can create fall hazards

Additionally, even if surfaces appear dry, they can still be a concern for fall prevention. Once the snow melts away and the temperature warms, many of us will begin to traverse unpaved territory, such as yards or nature trails. When doing so, here are some potential hazards to watch out for when moving around outdoors.

• Mulch covered paths – These uneven surfaces can make it easy to stumble
• Walkways near large trees – Even when paved, tree roots can create uneven surfaces
• Paths both shaded and unshaded – Whenever you move from bright areas to shaded areas, or vice versa, give your eyes time to adjust before moving
• Uneven lawns or walkways – Especially when grass-covered, it can be difficult to spot holes and incline changes
• Cluttered paths – Just like indoors, keep any walkways around your house free of clutter

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What Shoes Should You Wear to Prevent Falls Outside?

A key part of remaining surefooted outside is choosing the proper footwear. This means that flip-flops, as nice as they may be to wear in warm weather, shouldn’t be part of your usual summer wardrobe.

There are many shoe styles you can choose from, but whichever pair you pick, it should be designed for outdoor use. The shoes should have closed heels, rubber soles for better traction and support, a low heel and be light in weight.

Make sure your shoes fit correctly, too. Shoes that are too large can slide off, and shoes that are too tight can cause pain. Consider shoes with elastic laces so that you can get the fit you need while still being able to easily get your shoes on or off.

Other Spring and Summer Fall Prevention Tips

With the right shoes on, you’re ready to get out and enjoy the warm weather. But while you do, here are a few additional tips worth keeping in mind as you enjoy the outdoors at home or elsewhere.

• Equip your deck or patio with secure railings
• Keep your deck, patio and any stairways well lit
• Don’t venture out in storms, as rain, fallen branches, scattered leaves and mud can all cause falls
• Stay hydrated during outdoor activity. Dehydration can cause dizziness, increasing your fall risk
• When out for a walk, keep your head up and eyes looking forward to identify potential fall hazards
• Ideally, take walks with a partner. When walking alone, carry a cell phone or personal emergency response system with you
• Avoid crowds when possible. Outdoor events are fun, but the crowds they draw can change the way you walk causing you to stumble

As Wisconsinites, we all want to make the most of the warm weather while it lasts. Just remember that this outdoor fun comes with a new set of fall hazards. Keeping these suggestions in mind can help you remain on your feet. If you do experience a fall, make sure to follow up with your personal doctor for an evaluation of any injuries and to talk about your fall prevention strategies.

For more information on how your Network Health plan can assist you with your home health, use the link below to contact us.