Health Risks of Shoveling Snow for Older Adults
With a significant winter storm on the horizon this weekend, heart health specialists are raising alarms about the physical strain of shoveling snow, especially for older individuals.
A study from the Mayo Clinic indicates that just ten minutes of shoveling heavy snow can stretch your heart rate to about 97% of its maximum. Additionally, cold air can elevate blood pressure and limit blood flow to the heart.
While there’s no strict age that defines “too old” for shoveling, some cardiologists suggest that those over 45 should exercise increased caution to reduce the risk of heart-related incidents.
When to Exercise Caution
Dr. Navjot Kaur Sobti, a cardiac specialist at Northwell’s Northern Westchester Hospital in New York, mentioned that there isn’t a concrete age limit, but generally, it’s wise to be more careful as you reach your mid-40s. This is particularly applicable to those who aren’t very active. She advised Regular exercise is key.
For those over 65 with factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle, Dr. Sobti suggests extreme caution while shoveling. Dr. John Osborne, a cardiologist in Texas, echoes this sentiment for men over 65.
He highlights the dangers for people who typically lead a sedentary lifestyle and then push themselves physically, like shoveling snow once or twice a year. Such sudden exertion can indeed be risky.
The Hidden Strain on the Heart
Dr. Sobti notes that the stress from shoveling can be comparable to what one experiences during a cardiac stress test. Cold temperatures pose their own risks, constricting blood vessels and causing blood pressure spikes, which can be exacerbated when lifting snow.
She points out that this scenario is like an at-risk individual undertaking a strenuous exercise test without supervision.
Recent findings suggest that cold exposure leads to nearly double the number of cardiovascular deaths compared to heat exposure. It’s a stark reminder that for those over 65, the combination of shoveling snow and frigid temperatures raises risks significantly.
Tips for Safer Snow Shoveling
If possible, having someone else clear the snow is ideal, but if you must do it yourself, Dr. Osborne recommends pushing or sweeping motions at your own pace instead of heavy lifting.
To guard against the cold, cover your mouth, nose, and extremities, wear a hat and gloves, and be extra cautious on windy days.
Even using a snow blower can raise heart rates—up to 120 beats per minute versus 170 when shoveling manually, according to the American Heart Association.
Stay alert for signs of potential heart issues while shoveling. Symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat shouldn’t be ignored. Even if these signs fade quickly, it’s crucial to call for help to ensure you’re not having a heart attack.
As Dr. Sobti puts it, It’s better to be safe than sorry.
