Summer Fun and Fall Prevention: Stay Safe Outdoors

Summer is a great time to enjoy walking, gardening, family gatherings, and other outdoor activities.

Staying active is important for your health, but remember that warmer weather can also increase your risk of falls. A few simple precautions can help you stay safe while enjoying the season.

Tips for Safe Summer Activities

Watch your step.

Be aware of uneven sidewalks, tree roots, loose gravel, wet surfaces, and other tripping hazards. Take your time and pay attention to where you are walking.

Wear supportive shoes.

Choose well-fitting shoes with non-slip soles. Avoid flip-flops and worn-out footwear that can increase your risk of slipping or tripping.

Stay hydrated.

Hot weather can cause dehydration, leading to dizziness and poor balance. Drink water throughout the day, especially when spending time outdoors.

Avoid extreme heat.

Before heading outside, check the weather and plan ahead. When temperatures are high, try to go out in the cooler morning or evening hours. Rest in the shade and pay attention to warning signs like dizziness, fatigue, or headache. On very hot days, it is safest to stay indoors or spend time in an air-conditioned places.

Use your assistive device.

If you use a cane or walker, be sure to bring it with you and use it when walking. These devices provide extra support and stability on uneven outdoor surfaces.

Summer Safety Checklist:

Before heading outdoors, ask yourself:

Am I wearing supportive shoes?
Have I had enough water today?
Do I have my cane or walker if needed?
Am I avoiding the hottest part of the day?
Do I have sunglasses and sun protection?
Do I have a phone or way to call for help?

For CenterLight Healthcare PACE Participants

How Your Care Team Can Help

Your CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) rehabilitation team can help reduce your risk of falls through balance training, strengthening exercises, assistive device recommendations, and home safety education. If you have concerns about your balance or mobility, please reach out to your care team.

Enjoy the summer, stay active, and remember that a few simple safety habits can help prevent falls and keep you doing the activities you love.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE is committed to providing accurate health-related ilated information to help individuals live well, stay healthy and make well-informed healthcare decisions. Information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend that users consult with their medical provider regarding their care.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE. Tatyana celebrated her 20th year of working at CenterLight in 2025.

In her own words:

"Over the years, my responsibilities have evolved, but my mission has remained the same: to ensure our participants are safe in their communities by providing high quality care and being a supportive, collaborative member of the care team. Being a Physical Therapist is more than just a job—it’s a calling. And I’m grateful every day to be part of a field that makes such a difference in people's lives."