How to Prevent Holiday Falls: Safety Tips for Icy Weather and Busy Gatherings
The holidays bring family time, celebrations, and plenty of movement — from decorating to cooking to walking across icy driveways.
For older adults or anyone managing balance challenges, this season can also bring a higher risk of falls.
Crowded rooms, slippery sidewalks, rushing around, and changes in routine all create the perfect storm for accidents. But with the right strategies, you can enjoy the holidays safely and confidently.
Here’s how to keep yourself or a loved one steady through the busiest (and slipperiest) time of the year.
Why Fall Risk Increases During the Holiday Season
1. Icy and Wet Surfaces
Sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots become hazardous fast — especially after snow or freezing rain.
2. Cluttered, Busy Homes
Holiday décor, extra furniture, extension cords, gifts, and foot traffic can turn a familiar home into an obstacle course.
3. Changes in Routine
Travel, late nights, and skipped exercise sessions can worsen balance and mobility.
4. Rushing or Multitasking
Carrying bags, food, or decorations while walking raises fall risk — especially for seniors or those with gait issues.
5. Medical Conditions That Affect Balance
Parkinson’s, neuropathy, stroke history, and general age-related decline can make holiday environments more challenging.
If balance is already a concern, consider scheduling a fall-risk assessment. Learn more about our Gait and Balance Therapy.
How to Stay Safer Outdoors This Holiday Season
1. Choose the Right Footwear
Wear shoes or boots with:
- strong traction
- firm ankle support
- non-slip soles
Avoid smooth-bottomed shoes that slide easily.
2. Walk Slowly and Take Shorter Steps
Short, careful steps help maintain control — especially on driveways and parking lots.
3. Salt or Sand Walkways
Before stepping outside, treat icy spots.
If visiting family, ask someone to clear a safe path before you arrive.
4. Keep Hands Free
Use backpacks or bags with shoulder straps so you can focus on balance — not juggling items.
External resource:
CDC Winter Fall Prevention Tips
How to Stay Safe Indoors During Holiday Gatherings
1. Clear Walkways
Remove:
- loose rugs
- cords
- clutter
- décor placed on the floor
Make wide, open pathways from room to room.
2. Add Extra Lighting
Good lighting reduces missteps, especially in:
- hallways
- staircases
- bathrooms
- entryways
3. Avoid Slippery Floors
Wet floors from snow or spilled drinks are a major hazard.
Place absorbent mats near entrances and clean up spills immediately.
4. Use Stable Seating
Chairs with armrests make standing and sitting safer — especially after long meals.
Holiday Travel Tips for Seniors With Balance Issues
If you’re traveling:
- Request airport wheelchair assistance in advance.
- Pack medications and assistive devices in a carry-on.
- Take walking breaks during long drives.
- Avoid rushing through crowds.
If mobility is already difficult, check out our Parkinson’s Wellness Center for programs designed to improve strength, balance, and coordination before holiday travel.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Fall Prevention
A targeted physical therapy plan can help you:
- strengthen the legs and core
- improve balance and reaction time
- reduce freezing episodes (for Parkinson’s)
- increase walking confidence
- improve posture and coordination
Many patients see improvement in just a few sessions.
Explore our Parkinson’s Disease Treatment or Gait & Balance Programs to get started.
When to Seek Help
You should consider professional support if you notice:
- feeling unsteady on icy or uneven surfaces
- trouble stepping over thresholds or rugs
- recent near-falls
- freezing while walking
- reliance on furniture for support
Addressing these signs early can prevent serious injuries.
Stay Safe, Strong, and Steady This Holiday Season
Fall prevention starts with awareness, preparation, and the right support.
At Synaptic Rehabilitation, our team specializes in improving balance, preventing falls, and helping you stay confident during the holiday rush.
📍 1200 Route 22 East, Suite 4, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
📞 908-801-6425
🌐 https://synapticrehab.com/
Steven Cheung, DPT
Steven is the founder and lead physical therapist at SYNAPTIC Rehabilitation. He earned a BS in Exercise Science Applied Kinesiology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ and his Doctorate degree from American International College in Springfield, MA. Steven specializes in movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and many other neurological disorders. Outside of practicing physical therapy Steven enjoys time with his wife, running, and staying active.