Tips for Walking on Ice and Snow From Phoenix Home Care

Winter is here. Snow and ice could cause slips and falls on your porch, sidewalk, and yard. Seniors are particularly susceptible to injuries as they try to walk outside when there’s winter precipitation or layers of ice. 

Even though a sidewalk looks clear, you could still encounter slippery conditions. That’s why Phoenix Home Care & Hospice prepared some tips for walking on ice and snow.

Related Post: Phoenix Home Care Presents Winter Tips for Seniors Stuck at Home

Check Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on the weather conditions, and plan accordingly. Pay particular attention to reports of rain, snow, or sleet. Check the outdoor temperature before you leave home. You should take extra precautions if it has recently been below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avoid Deep Snow and Ice

Always stay on cleared pathways free of most snow and ice. Have someone clear your sidewalk and then add salt to the walkway to keep ice or snow melted. Rock salt only works down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, rock salt also provides better traction as you walk.

Dress Appropriately

Dress warmly for the weather. This includes gloves and boots. Wear gloves because you’ll need them to grip a cane, walker, or wheelchair if you need these assistive devices. Boots should be warm and have excellent traction. The staff at Phoenix Home Care & Hospice can help you or your loved one get dressed for winter weather, especially if there are mobility issues involved.

Prepare Your Mobility Devices

Do you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair? Prepare any of these items for snow and ice before you leave the house. If anything on these devices is worn or broken, repair or replace them. Canes and walkers have non-slip ends or cleats on them for better traction on snow and ice. 

Have Someone Help You

This is where Phoenix Home Care & Hospice excels. Have someone help you navigate when you’re moving around outdoors. Even sidewalks that look clear could have black ice or hidden spots where you can’t see the ice. We have home health aides who can assist you during the challenges of winter weather, such as snow and ice.   

Related Post: Home Maintenance Tasks to Make In-Home Care Easier

In-Home Care by Phoenix Home Care

Phoenix Home Care & Hospice specializes in caring for clients at home, where we believe the best healing takes place. Our home health aides can help you navigate winter weather, no matter where you live. Contact Phoenix Home Care online or call toll-free 1-888-830-2388 for more information on what we offer.

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