How do you feel about falling?

Posted by Steph-Words That Fly @stephcarney, Jan 7 9:05pm

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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@savanah10

We had a stair lift installed last year. Prices range from $ 4,000 - 7,000. It was worth it to us...cheaper than a remodel and I feel safer.

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I just had one installed too. I love it. Go with ACORN!! They only charged me @ $3600.00. 🙂 My staircase is like climbing a mountain. It was built in the 1800's.

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@howdi

I’ve not fallen but I too am scared of falling. I live in Manitoba and have snow/ice for months.

I use a spiked walking stick whenever I’m outside, even to go to the car and Nordic walking poles for walks.

Without the poles, I shuffle like like an old person. I am 78 and active.

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I too am afraid of falling on ice, live in MI. During the winter, husband and I use a treadmill for exercise and just stay indoors on the icey days.

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I have had a complete hip replacement. Even though this was two years ago I am still terrified of falling. I still use a cane to walk, even though my surgeon says it is unnecessary. I also am careful about the way I walk. No shuffling. You must be careful to life each foot with each step.

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@mariewms

I too am afraid of falling on ice, live in MI. During the winter, husband and I use a treadmill for exercise and just stay indoors on the icey days.

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If you live in Winnipeg I can relate. I was born and raised there.

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@thisismarilynb

I have had a complete hip replacement. Even though this was two years ago I am still terrified of falling. I still use a cane to walk, even though my surgeon says it is unnecessary. I also am careful about the way I walk. No shuffling. You must be careful to life each foot with each step.

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@thisismarilynb Good advice Marilyn!
😊

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@thisismarilynb

I have had a complete hip replacement. Even though this was two years ago I am still terrified of falling. I still use a cane to walk, even though my surgeon says it is unnecessary. I also am careful about the way I walk. No shuffling. You must be careful to life each foot with each step.

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Why not just get a walker? My husband used one when he was having balance issues and felt very secure with it, no falling worries at all...good luck !

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@casey1329

Why not just get a walker? My husband used one when he was having balance issues and felt very secure with it, no falling worries at all...good luck !

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Thank you for your suggestion but I do not have balance issues at this time. Just a fear of falling.

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Yes to strength, core and balance training. I'm 75 and have no major health issues other than normal aging concerns. It's important to keep track of medications and discuss any that may affect balance with your PCP. I usually get a good quality sleep each night, but if not, I have some difficulty with coordination.

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@thisismarilynb

I have had a complete hip replacement. Even though this was two years ago I am still terrified of falling. I still use a cane to walk, even though my surgeon says it is unnecessary. I also am careful about the way I walk. No shuffling. You must be careful to life each foot with each step.

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Marilyn,
I also had a total hip replacement- last June. It went fine, recovery fine, but I have this fear of falling. The PT says that I am “scared walking.” I watch the ground, walk slowly, and generally just move very tentatively.

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@tim1028

Yes to strength, core and balance training. I'm 75 and have no major health issues other than normal aging concerns. It's important to keep track of medications and discuss any that may affect balance with your PCP. I usually get a good quality sleep each night, but if not, I have some difficulty with coordination.

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I second this approach "Yes to strength, core and balance training." - heading out the door right now to 45 minutes of senior yoga and balance exercise, then will do 15 minutes of strength or aerobics with husband when I get home.
Sue

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