The Home Accessibility Therapist LLC

Does spring bring an increased risk of falls?

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As we transition into early spring, there are several specific concerns related to fall prevention that seniors and their caregivers should be aware of:

Weather-Related Hazards

Wet and Slippery Surfaces: Spring often brings rain, which can create slippery conditions both indoors and outdoors1. Be extra cautious on wet surfaces, especially on smooth floors, sidewalks, and driveways.

Uneven Ground: As the ground thaws, it can become uneven or soft, increasing the risk of tripping or losing balance when walking outdoors2.

Increased Activity Levels

Spring Cleaning: Many people engage in spring cleaning, which can involve reaching for high places or moving heavy objects. This increased activity can lead to falls if proper precautions aren’t taken1.

Gardening: As the weather improves, seniors may spend more time gardening. This activity can involve bending, kneeling, and using tools, all of which can increase fall risk if not done carefully2.

Seasonal Allergies

Vision Impairment: Spring allergies can cause watery or itchy eyes, potentially affecting vision and increasing the risk of missteps or falls5.

Medication Side Effects: Allergy medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can contribute to fall risk5.

Footwear Transition

Inappropriate Shoes: As the weather warms up, there might be a tendency to switch to less supportive footwear like sandals or slip-ons. It’s important to continue wearing sturdy, well-fitting shoes with good traction57.

Outdoor Hazards

Yard Debris: Fallen branches, leaves, or other debris from winter can create tripping hazards in yards and walkways1.

Uneven Pavement: Freeze-thaw cycles during winter can create cracks or unevenness in sidewalks and driveways, which become more apparent in spring3.

To address these concerns, seniors should:

  • Be extra vigilant about clearing walkways and using non-slip mats13.
  • Wear appropriate footwear with good traction5,7.
  • Take breaks during spring cleaning and gardening activities12.
  • Consider using assistive devices like canes or walkers when navigating outdoor spaces8.
  • Ensure proper lighting both indoors and outdoors, especially as daylight hours change6.

References:

  1. Senior Helpers, 2024. Preventing falls: Springtime safety tips. Retrieved from: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/fl/pasco-west/resources/blogs/2024-05-04/

2. Intrex Innovative Solutions, 2024. Tips to prevent falls in spring. Retrieved from: https://www.intrexis.com/tips-for-seniors-to-prevent-falls-in-spring/

3. Michigan Medicare Assistance Program, 2025. How to prevent falls with home safety modifications. Retrieved from: https://mmapinc.org/how-to-prevent-falls-with-home-safety-modifications/

4. Healthy Aging Association, N.D., Prevent falls Stanislaus. Retrieved from: https://www.healthyagingassociation.org/preventfalls.html

5. Mayo Clinic, 2024. Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

6. Dakota Home Care, 2025. Home Modifications for Fall Prevention: Creating a Safer Living Space. Retrieved from: https://dakotahomecare.com/home-modifications-for-fall-prevention-creating-a-safer-living-space/

7. Ozark Orthopaedics, N.D. Natiional Falls Prevention Awareness Week. Retrieved from: https://ozarkorthopaedic.com/national-falls-prevention-awareness-week/

8. Greater Good Health, 2025. Preventing Falls: Senior Safety Awareness. Retrieved from: https://greatergoodhealth.com/patients/fall-prevention/

9. Campani, D., Caristia, S., Amariglio, A., Piscone, S., Ferrara, L. I., Barisone, M., Bortoluzzi, S., Faggiano, F., Dal Molin, A., & IPEST Working Group (2021). Home and environmental hazards modification for fall prevention among the elderly. Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.), 38(3), 493–501. https://doi.org/10.1111/phn.12852

10. NSW Healthy Aging and Fall Prevention Network, 2025. April Falls 2025. Retrieved from: https://fallsnetwork.neura.edu.au/aprilfalls/

11. Confident Living, N.D., 6 ways to ensure slip, trip, and fall prevention this spring. Retrieved from: https://confident-living.org/blog/6-ways-to-ensure-slip-trip-and-fall-prevention-this-spring/

12. National Council on Aging, 2023. Home modification tools and tips to help prevent falls. Retrieved from: https://www.ncoa.org/article/home-modification-tools-and-tips-to-help-prevent-falls/

13. Superior Senior Care, 2024. 7 fall prevention tips for seniors. Retrieved from: https://www.superiorseniorcare.com/7-fall-prevention-tips-for-seniors/

14. Senior Helpers, 2024. Preventing Falls: Spring Safety Tips for Seniors. Retrieved from: https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ca/central-valley-north/resources/blogs/2024-05-13/

15. USC Leonard Dvis School of Gerontology, 2023. Home modification tools and tips to help prevent falls. Retrieved from: https://gero.usc.edu/2023/03/10/home-modification-tools-and-tips-to-help-prevent-falls/

16. National Council on Aging, 2024. For professionals: Falls prevention awareness week. Retrieved from: https://www.ncoa.org/professionals/health/center-for-healthy-aging/national-falls-prevention-resource-center/falls-prevention-awareness-week/

17. Ohio Department of Aging, N.D. Fall prevention in every season. Retrieved from: https://aging.ohio.gov/care-and-living/health-and-safety/fall-prevention/falls-prevention-in-every-season

18. National Institute on Aging, 2022. Preventing Falls at Home: Room by Room. Retrieved from: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/preventing-falls-home-room-room

19. National COuncil on Aging, 2025. Falls prevention awareness week toolkit. Retrieved from: https://www.ncoa.org/page/falls-prevention-awareness-week-toolkit/

20. Safe Kids Pennsylvania, 2020. Seasonal safety spring. Retieved from: https://pasafekids.org/risk-injury-areas/spring/

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