Slip and Slide and Safety

Summer brings sunshine, family gatherings, BBQs, and outdoor fun. However, for older adults, it also brings unique fall risks. Yet, summer should be about enjoying the moment, not recovering from a fall. Let’s talk about how older adults can stay safe, active, and independent all summer long.

Why Summer Poses a Fall Risk

While we may associate falls with slippery winter roads, summer introduces its own hazards, such as:

• Wet surfaces from pools or sprinklers
• Uneven lawns or patio stones
• Sandals or flip-flops with poor support
• Dehydration leading to dizziness or low blood pressure
• Twigs on a hiking trail or hidden rocks on the beach

Top Tips for Staying Steady This Summer

1. Choose the Right Footwear

Flip-flops may be fun, but they’re not your friend when it comes to balance. Rather, opt for a more stable shoe, especially ones with laces or velcro that you can cinch up around your feet. Consider arch supports and side-to-side support from your shoe too.

2. Be Wary of Wet Ground

Whether it is a pool deck, a splash pad, or water balloons with the grandkids, slippery surfaces are everywhere. Walk, do not rush, when walking anywhere that may be a wet zone, even if it does not look wet. Be especially careful when there are kids running around in swim gear!

3. Stay Hydrated 

Heat and dehydration can cause dizziness, fatigue, and confusion—all of which increase fall risk. Reach for plain water rather than a sugary drink. Look at your urine to see if it is a pale, yellow color. If your pee is starting to look like apple juice, it is time to grab a glass of water.

4. Stay Cool

Overheating can lead to dehydration and increase your risk of falling. Wear light, breathable clothing and take breaks in shaded or cool areas if you are in the sun. This prevents overheating, heat strokes, and dehydration.

5. Stay Active, Stay Strong

Maintaining strength and balance year-round helps reduce your fall risk in any season. The best way to prevent falls is by lowering your fall risk through exercise and strengthening. Summer presents an excellent opportunity to do some summer exercises, including:

• Walks in the early morning or evening
• Yoga or tai chi in shaded areas
• Pickleball indoors or in cooler times of the day

Enjoy Summer Safely

Fun and safety go hand-in-hand. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer without fear of falling. If you or a loved one is concerned about balance or recent falls, consider reaching out to Live Your Life’s physical therapy service to assess your fall risk and get you started on a fall prevention program. An in-home physical therapist can even help make your living area safe and slip-proof. Do not wait; get fall-free this summer!

References

1. Belasco R, Edwards T, Munoz AJ, Rayo V, Buono MJ. The Effect of Hydration on Urine Color Objectively Evaluated in CIE L*a*b* Color Space. Front Nutr. 2020;7:576974. Published 2020 Oct 26. doi:10.3389/fnut.2020.576974
2. Hamrick I, Norton D, Birstler J, Chen G, Cruz L, Hanrahan L. Association Between Dehydration and Falls. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes. 2020;4(3):259-265. Published 2020 Jun 5. doi:10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2020.01.003