Falls in Winter: A Hidden Risk for Nursing Home Residents

floor slippery from snow

As winter approaches, colder temperatures and icy conditions present significant challenges for nursing homes, which are often home to elderly residents with limited mobility and higher vulnerability to injury. Falls are one of the most common causes of injury in nursing homes, and the winter season exacerbates this risk. Cold weather, combined with insufficient safety measures, can dramatically increase the likelihood of falls, leading to serious injuries, prolonged hospital stays, and even death. Families must understand these risks and take steps to advocate for safer environments to ensure their loved ones remain protected during the winter months.

The Impact of Icy Conditions on Fall Risks

While falls due to icy conditions outside nursing homes are an obvious threat, they are just the tip of the iceberg. As snow and ice accumulate, pathways around the facility become hazardous, increasing the risk of falls for residents and visitors alike. If proper precautions are not taken, people can slip and sustain serious injuries. But the risks don’t stop at the exterior of the building. The dangers multiply when nursing homes fail to ensure that walkways, driveways, parking lots, and entrances are well-maintained and free from hazardous ice and snow.

In addition to icy sidewalks and entrances, the indoor areas near entrances can be just as hazardous. As residents and staff enter the facility from the cold, they may track in snow and water, creating slippery floors inside. If not cleaned promptly, these indoor hazards can result in falls—especially for those with limited mobility, balance issues, or who are dependent on wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids.

Nursing homes should have clear, detailed protocols for regularly clearing walkways, driveways, and all other outdoor areas of snow and ice and monitoring these areas regularly. Families should inquire about the facility’s snow and ice removal procedures to ensure they are comprehensive and prompt. Ensuring that entrances are clear and easily accessible is crucial for reducing the risk of falls.

Indoor Fall Risks During Winter

In addition to the outdoor dangers, winter brings risks inside nursing homes. Poorly maintained heating systems, improperly designed flooring, and wet, slippery indoor areas can all increase the risk of falls. Winter weather can suddenly increase moisture, leading to wet floors in entryways, hallways, or bathrooms. If nursing homes are not vigilant about drying these areas or using non-slip mats, they become a breeding ground for falls.

Worsening the issue, many nursing homes experience problems with temperature regulation. In some facilities, heating systems may struggle to provide consistent warmth throughout the building. Cold temperatures can cause residents to become less mobile or reluctant to leave their rooms, leading to increased muscle weakness and falls. Residents not kept at a comfortable temperature may also experience discomfort or disorientation, which can contribute to the likelihood of a fall.

Additionally, the winter months often limit residents’ ability to participate in outdoor activities, which can impact physical health. Exercise and regular physical movement are critical for maintaining strength, balance, and mobility, especially for elderly residents. However, when outdoor activities are restricted due to the cold, residents are more likely to experience a decrease in their overall fitness level, making them more susceptible to falls in the winter. Nursing homes should continue to provide safe indoor activities such as physical therapy or group exercises to keep residents active, even when it’s too cold to go outside.

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How Families Can Advocate for Safer Environments

Families play a vital role in ensuring their loved ones remain safe from falls during winter. By staying vigilant and informed, family members can advocate for the best possible care and ensure nursing homes take the necessary steps to prevent falls.

  1. Inquire About Winter Safety Protocols
    Ask the facility how it manages snow and ice removal. Does it have a snow removal service, and how often are outdoor pathways checked for hazards? Do they have a plan for quick responses to icy conditions, especially around entrances and walkways? Ensure the nursing home has a comprehensive and regularly implemented plan.
  2. Check Indoor Safety Measures
    Pay attention to the condition of the indoor areas. Are wet floors promptly cleaned? Are non-slip mats used in entryways, bathrooms, and hallways? Is the lighting adequate, especially in darker months when it gets dark earlier? Family members should also ask whether the heating system maintains a safe and comfortable temperature for residents, especially in common areas.
  3. Advocate for Fall-Prevention Programs
    Many nursing homes offer fall prevention programs or physical therapy sessions. Ask whether the facility has structured programs designed to help improve residents’ strength, mobility, and balance. Activities like gentle exercises, stretching, and walking programs can help build resilience and reduce the likelihood of falls. Ensure that residents who need mobility aids, such as walkers or canes, have access to them and are encouraged to use them.
  4. Visit Regularly and Observe
    One of the best ways to ensure your loved one is safe is by visiting frequently. This allows families to assess the safety of the environment and observe whether staff are taking the necessary precautions. During your visits, check for wet floors, icy patches, or areas with inadequate lighting. Walk around the facility and check areas where residents typically walk, such as hallways, dining rooms, and bathrooms. Pay attention to whether staff members are providing sufficient assistance to those who need it, especially in the winter months when mobility is a concern.
  5. Report Hazards Immediately
    If you notice any potential hazards, report them right away to facility management. Whether it’s a wet floor in an entryway or an icy patch outside, addressing these dangers promptly can prevent serious injuries. Record any hazards reported and the response time to ensure that necessary actions are taken.
  6. Review Resident Care Plans
    Every resident in a nursing home should have an individualized care plan that addresses their unique needs. Review your loved one’s care plan and ensure it includes assessments of their fall risk and mobility challenges. Ask staff members what measures are in place to mitigate these risks, such as assistance with walking, special footwear, or regular mobility checks. Ensure that the nursing home staff regularly updates the care plan to reflect any changes in your loved one’s physical condition.
  7. Encourage Social Interaction and Physical Activity
    Social isolation and reduced physical activity during winter can increase the risk of falls. Encourage the nursing home to provide residents with opportunities for indoor activities that promote socialization and mobility. Engage in group exercises, board games, or other low-impact activities that help keep residents active while staying safe indoors. A lively, interactive environment can also keep residents mentally and physically sharp.

Preventing Falls and Hazards

Winter brings a unique set of challenges for nursing homes, but with awareness, preparation, and consistent safety measures, the risks associated with falls can be minimized. Both outdoor and indoor environments require diligent attention to ensure they are free from hazards. Families play an essential role in advocating for their loved ones’ safety. By asking the right questions, regularly checking the facility’s safety measures, and taking proactive steps, families can help protect their elderly loved ones from the hidden dangers of winter falls. Nursing home residents can enjoy a safe and comfortable winter season with the proper precautions.

Questions About a Potential Lawsuit Against a Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility? 

Michael Hill is a nationally recognized attorney who handles exclusively cases against long term care facilities. Michael and his firm, Michael Hill Trial Law, are headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio but handle cases across the country.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for informational purposes only. Nothing in this article should be construed as providing legal advice or the creation of an attorney client relationship. Laws are updated frequently and change from state to state. If you desire legal advice, you can contact Michael Hill Trial Law at www.protectseniors.com, send an email to info@protectseniors.com, call (800) 659-2712 to begin an investigation, or contact another attorney.