How do you feel about falling?
In the last two winters I've had two falls. The first was a series of three falls on an icy trail within 15 minutes resulting in a badly sprained wrist that took a looong time to recover from. Now I'm terrified of the ice or even slippery new snow, so I have four different sets of micro spikes.
Early last spring I fell down the steps (indoors) carrying my ailing dog to let her out in the middle of the night. She was fine. I was badly bruised in multiple places. Now, no socks on steps, carry only one thing and hold the rail. I manage steps very carefully.
I am paranoid about falling. Maybe I should practice falling correctly! What are your thoughts about falling? What do you do to prevent falls?
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I am at the point where I “move with a purpose “ and think about the whole trip from point A to point B and back. My driving philosophy is “Arrive alive” and now that is also my walking strategy. lol
@iamallears
You are such an inspiration, starting with your clever name. I was just talking to my wife about your post and we both agree “you are saving lives”, starting with ours. Thank you and God bless you.
That is good thinking. Thank you for sharing! Every step I’m mindful until I get to where I need to be, mostly when I’m having problems/flares etc.. I have not driven since 2021. I’d like to return to it but am unsure. I wanted to go into an empty parking lot and see how it is. I live that. “Arrive Alive” !
@captboat That sort of awareness is key, and I love the catchy phrase Arrive Alive! Never underestimate the power of intention!
That gave me a chuckle. I have 3 short steps (two-sided) with only a rail on the outside, to get to my front door. It is interesting to see my friends approach - some walk around to the back side, to hold on with their right hand, others come up the front.
Almost noone comes up without the rail, each of us has either experienced or witnessed "The Joy of Falling." When entertaining, I stand on the landing and hand trays down to be placed on the patio table, which I learned the hard way after tripping on a step and dropping a tray of 12 margarita glasses (fortunately they were still empty!)
Sue
That is exactly why we are downsizing and moving to a little place with no stairs. Or can you move your sleeping area to the first floor? Do you have osteoporosis? I am close to 76 now. Fell down and broke my shoulder 2 years ago the doc told me pets, stairs, throw rugs and electric cords were the greatest risks. Do you have one of those bracelets/necklaces with a notification button if you fall. Make sure you are exercising and building strength. Take care.
Great photo. By the way, my corgi noodle was the culprit. I fondly remember him licking my face before the paramedics arrived. He is a great buddy otherwise. I just have to remember to keep an eye open for him as I walk along.
@sueinmn With awareness, we're all capable of finding accommodations that keep us safe. Any other life style modifications others have learned to use in order to remain healthy, active, and happy?
@gravity3 Great ideas and suggestions. I think that eventually I will wish for a first floor bedroom, but that's not in the cards for now. So, I try to be cautious, make multiple trips rather than carrying too much, one hand on the rail, and one on the wall when possible.
SHOES! Not flip-flops, open-back Crocs, stocking feet or bedroom slippers. Real shoes (or sandals) that fasten on the feet, and worn tied or buckled. Or slip-ons that really stay on. Or bare feet on safe surfaces. I have given up my beloved Teva flip-flops after too many almost-falls. And although my grandkids take great joy in sliding around our hardwood floors in their socks, I fear I would break something if I crashed like they do.
Walking aids - I use hiking poles for trekking on uneven ground even in some parks with rough paths, and my friends who are unsteady also use them, or canes.
Sue