Preventing Outside Falls this Spring

By Jessica Ott | March 9, 2026 |

Spring is right around the corner, and like many of us, your elderly loved one might be excited to get outside, enjoy some fresh air that doesn’t freeze her lungs solid, and see the sun again. For those who live in colder climates, there is nothing better than finally seeing daytime temps rise above freezing and having daylight that lasts past dinner. A companion care at home provider can see to it that your loved one gets out and about safely.

Approach with Caution

Companion Care at Home Spring Grove PA – Preventing Outside Falls this Spring

Although those warmer temps may lure your loved one outside, it’s time to remember that one day above freezing does not usually get rid of all of those winter hazards that you and your elderly loved one were so careful about. In fact, spring, with its rapidly changing weather forecasts, can make the danger of falling more likely.

The danger for many mostly comes from the way spring loves to thaw out all of that snow into puddles, but then refreeze it into ice rinks. Spring is also often known for both heavy, compact snowstorms as well as freezing rain and ice. What can look like a beautiful spring morning may result in dangerous roads, driveways, and sidewalks at night. Now, more than ever, checking the weather predictions and reviewing the outside of your elderly loved one’s home is more important than ever to prevent a bad fall from being how they start their spring.

Hazardous Conditions Ahead (Review These Areas Before Your Loved One Leaves the House)

Check Those Steps

Winter weather can wreak havoc on cement steps by creating cracks and breaking off corners. Check the steps to make sure they’re still safe to use.

Each day, check all steps for ice that may have formed overnight. In some older homes, the stairs near the front door are often the most likely to get covered in ice due to melted snow that drips off the roof. Even if they are just damp, but the temps are going to drop again, cover them in sand or salt to keep ice melted and slipping avoided.

Slippery Sidewalks

Shoveling snow off the sidewalk is the first step to take to make sure your loved one’s sidewalks are safe for them to walk across, but in also watch for ice buildup as well as uneven surfaces. If all of the snow cannot be removed, there can be dips and bumps that could cause tripping. When spring really begins to thaw, watch for large puddles that can hide a bad crack or hole in the sidewalk.

Keep Driveways Safe

If your loved one has to park outside and then walk to their front door, make sure the area they are walking on is free from ice and any tripping hazards, such as large clumps of hard snow or a pile of leftover leaves from last fall.

Outdoor Lighting

A well-lit outdoor area will help prevent a fall by allowing your loved one to see any unexpected obstacles that may be in their path.

Have Someone Help During the Spring

If your loved one needs help safely maneuvering outside, a companion care at home team can provide the support they need. Companion Care at home providers can assist with taking the dog out, getting groceries inside the house, and spreading ice melt on the sidewalks and stairs. If your loved one needs to go somewhere, a companion care at home provider can help her get there safely by providing an arm to hold or a shoulder to lean on.

**If you or an aging loved one is considering Companion Care at Home Services in Spring Grove, PA, please get in touch with us. Our friendly staff can answer all of your questions.**

**In-Home Senior Care in Adams and York Counties, PA. Call Today: (717) 698-8258.**

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Jessica Ott

Owner at A Helping Hand Home Care Services, LLC

Jessica Ott is the Owner at A Helping Hand Home Care Services, LLC.

A Helping Hand Home Care Services, LLC is dedicated to providing our clients with a better quality of life through our support services while maintaining their independence in the comfort of their own home.

As a Home Care Agency licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, we can provide families with peace of mind, knowing their loved one is in good hands.

We will work with you to prepare a care plan that incorporates your needs, your wishes, and your preferred schedule. Each client is matched with a caregiver who can best meet their individual needs, whether they reside in a house, apartment, condominium, assisted living, or nursing community.