Updated Dec. 6, 2025, 8:02 a.m. CT
Around this time of year, residents begin to worry about keeping snow off their driveways, porches, and sidewalks.
Residents will ensure they have their snow shovels and blowers ready to take on the arduous task of clearing those areas around the home.
The task can be taxing on the body with the amount of energy it takes to clear the slush in order for cars and people to move around safely.
Shoveling snow can also be hazardous, especially for older residents. Yes, the threat of slipping and falling is the obvious hazard. In fact, 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% of the injuries happened in or around the home.
Nearly 22% of those injured were adults age 55 or older, the journal reported.
Regardless of age, shoveling snow can be dangerous if not done carefully.
How old is too old to shovel snow?
While there is no exact study that pins down an age that is too old to be out with the snow shovel, some recommendations have been provided.
Dr. Barry Franklin, who is the lead author of the American Heart Association’s scientific statement on heart risks related to exercise, has suggested 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 than taking 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.
How does snow shoveling strain the heart?
There are five factors that affect heart health, according to Churchwell:
- Shoveling snow mostly requires arm work, which is more demanding on the heart than leg work.
- While lifting heavy loads, people unknowingly hold their breath, which leads to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
- Cold air can cause blood vessels to constrict throughout the body. That could raise blood pressure while constricting coronary arteries.
Churchwell added that anyone who has a sedentary lifestyle, is obese, is a current or former smoker, has diabetes, has high cholesterol or high blood pressure should avoid shoveling snow.
Anyone who has or is suspected of having heart disease or risk factors for heart disease should also avoid shoveling snow, Churchwell recommended.
“People with these characteristics and those who have had bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty simply should not be shoveling snow in any conditions,” he said. “We often see events in people who are usually sedentary, they work at a computer all day or get little or no exercise. Then once or twice a year they go out and try to shovel the driveway after a heavy snowfall and that unexpected exertion can unfortunately lead to tragedy.”
How to reduce injury while snow shoveling
If you’re unable to find help shoveling snow from around your home, take the following steps:
- Start gradually and pace yourself.
- Cover your nose and mouth and wear layered clothing.
- Instead of lifting and throwing shoveled snow, push or sweep it aside.
- Use an automated snow blower.
What are common symptoms of a cardiac event?
The American Heart Association describes these events as signs of a possible heart attack:
- Chest discomfort
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including arms, back, neck, jaw, and stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Breaking out in a cold sweat
- Nausea
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling unusually tired
- Feeling lightheaded
If you experience any of these signs, you are urged to call 911.
Emery Glover is an audience engagement specialist for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at eglover@usatodayco.com.
