The winter months and other severe weather can significantly raise our risk for falls and injuries. Snow, ice, heavy rain, extreme heat, and poor air quality can all increase hazards and reduce opportunities for safe physical activity. These conditions often isolate older adults who rely on in-person group-based programs for exercise, socialization, and self-efficacy.

Many evidence-based falls prevention programs can be adapted to operate safely and effectively despite inclement weather. The key is flexibility, preparation, and creativity in delivery. This article outlines practical strategies that communities and organizations can use to continue their falls prevention efforts all year long.

Anticipate and prepare for seasonal disruptions

Planning for seasonal or weather-related disruptions is one of the most effective ways to maintain program continuation. While winter storms, heat waves, and heavy rains are never 100% predictable, staying attuned to local weather forecasts and alerts can help inform potential changes needed for scheduled programs. Having contingency plans, such as predetermined make-up days or online backup sessions, can help maintain participant retention and ensure that older adults continue receiving support even when travel is unsafe.

Maintain clear communication with participants. Some ideas:

• Participants should know ahead of time how they will be notified about class cancellations, virtual alternatives, or phone-based sessions.
• Some organizations use automated text or phone alerts, while others maintain personal contact lists for outreach.
• Tracking attendance trends across seasons also allows coordinators to anticipate when participation may decline, giving them time to offer additional support or alternative activities.

By combining advance planning with consistent communication, programs can maintain stability throughout unpredictable weather changes.

See also: How Community-Based Organizations Can Prepare for Emergencies

Offer alternative program models

Consistency is crucial for older adults enrolled in falls prevention programs to maintain healthy habits. Without regular activity, participants can lose balance, strength, and confidence. Consider the weather when planning workshops; move classes earlier in the morning during warmer months. For winter weather, consider switching to hybrid and home-based formats to help prevent cancelling sessions.

Virtual classes, held via secure video platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, enable group engagement and maintain a sense of community. Many programs have found that participants enjoy the social interaction and convenience of virtual classes once they become familiar with the technology.

For those without internet access, low-tech solutions can still support ongoing participation. Programs can mail exercise packets, instructional DVDs, or provide weekly phone check-ins to guide at-home exercises. In some cases, trained staff may conduct safe, in-home visits to demonstrate proper exercise form and assess the home environment. Studies of the Otago Exercise Program and similar interventions demonstrate that home-based or remote delivery models can be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions when implemented with appropriate oversight.

Incorporate weather-specific safety education

Safety education should align with the most relevant seasonal risks. Instructors can integrate weather-related safety messages into existing curriculum components.

During winter weather:

• Recommend shoes or boots with traction soles, ice grips, or cleats.
• Emphasize using handrails, taking shorter steps, and avoiding icy or uneven surfaces.
• Encourage safe snow-clearing practices, salting or sanding walkways, and the use of non-slip mats at entryways.
• Ensure adequate lighting near entryways.

During extreme heat:

• Promote hydration before, during, and after activity.
• Suggest exercising in air-conditioned spaces or earlier in the day.
• Educate about symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration.
• Identify potential trip hazards, such as fans or cords used for cooling equipment.

During storms or poor air quality:

• Provide home-based or virtual exercise alternatives when outdoor activity is unsafe.
• Share local alert systems and air-quality updates, such as AirNow.gov.
• Reinforce the importance of avoiding strenuous activity during alerts.
• Maintain clear paths in case of power outages or emergency evacuations.
• Store flashlights, water, and non-slip mats in accessible areas.

Regular reinforcement of these messages helps participants stay safe and confident throughout the year. Ensure that staff are trained in environmental risk factors or falls and can recognize weather-related illnesses.

Bridge the digital divide

While virtual and hybrid models offer flexibility, technology access remains a barrier for some older adults. Addressing the digital divide is essential to ensure equitable participation. Organizations can offer short technology tutorials to help participants become comfortable using online meeting platforms. Pairing participants with volunteers or family “tech buddies” can also provide personalized support.

For individuals who remain unable to access digital platforms, providing printed exercise guides, DVDs, or audio recordings can offer practical alternatives. Partnering with local libraries, senior centers, or broadband programs can also expand access to devices and Wi-Fi connections. With the right support, most older adults can adapt to hybrid participation models and remain connected to their programs.

See also: FAQs: Technology, Programming, and Older Adults

Build community partnerships

Falls prevention programs are most effective when supported by a network of community partners. Severe weather conditions make these relationships even more vital.

Potential partners include:

• Transportation providers for safe travel assistance.
• Public works departments for clearing sidewalks and parking lots.
• Home repair or energy assistance programs to ensure adequate heating, lighting, and accessibility.
• Public health departments for real-time weather alerts and educational resources.
• Area Agencies on Aging for assessing and addressing local needs.

Collaboration enhances resilience and helps reach homebound or rural participants who may otherwise be left behind.

See also: How to Prevent Falls with Home Safety Modifications

Resources

• Check For Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• STEADI: Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries—CDC
• NCOA falls prevention programs and resources
• Preventing Falls at Home: Room by Room—National Institute on Aging (NIA)
• Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults—NIA 
• Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults—NIA
• Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults—FEMA
• NCOA’s Falls Free Checkup

This project was supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $10,000,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS.  The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS or the U.S. Government.