Is It Too Old too Shovel Snow? What to Know About Heart Health adn Snow Removal
Around this time of year, residents begin to worry about keeping snow off their driveways, porches, and sidewalks. They’ll ensure they have their snow shovels and blowers ready to take on the arduous task of clearing those areas around the home.
This task can be taxing on the body, requiring meaningful energy to clear slush for safe passage for cars and pedestrians. Shoveling snow can also be hazardous, especially for older adults.The threat of slipping and falling is obvious, but the risks go deeper. Studies show that nearly 200,000 people were treated for snow shovel-related injuries between 1990 and 2006, according to the American Journal of Emergency Medicine. Of those reported injuries, nearly 70% were male and just over 95% occurred in or around the home.
Nearly 22% of those injured were adults age 55 or older, the journal reported. Nonetheless of age, shoveling snow can be perilous if not done carefully.
How old is too old to shovel snow?
While there isn’t a definitive age at which shoveling snow becomes too risky,experts offer guidance.
Dr. Barry Franklin,lead author of the American Heart Association’s scientific statement on heart risks related to exercise, suggests that anyone ages 45 and older should avoid shoveling snow.
“Research has found that the strain of heavy snow shoveling may be as demanding on the heart as a treadmill stress test. Combined with the dangers of exertion in extremely cold weather, you’re looking at a perfect storm for a heart-related event,” American heart Association volunteer president Dr. Keith Churchwell said in a news release.
Worth a look