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@centre

I think it’s important to do what makes you feel safest and if that’s to have another person along, then best to do that. I would suggest that it’s worth a try to ask your Primary Care Provider to refer you for Physical Therapy. The PT will ask you your goals (maybe to walk without hands-on assist and to be given a Home Exercise Program for strengthening and balance?). The PT will evaluate your gait and offer training/suggestions for being able (if possible and safe) to walk with a recommended assistive device, rather than a human.
I use a straight cane at times (graduated from a rolling walker) to go into a store, I also try to park close to a shopping cart drop-off and snag one to balance myself while heading into the store. I also wait for people unloading their carts into the car trunk and chat 😊Everyone is always glad to hand off their cart. I never go up or down steps that don’t have a railing, try to avoid uneven surfaces (lawns, mulch), am very careful stepping off curbs, never back up/step backwards without something or someone to steady myself. Living with poor balance is a whole way of life, but better to be aware than on the pavement.

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Replies to "I think it’s important to do what makes you feel safest and if that’s to have..."

Thank you for your reply. I have tried PT and do many of the things you mentioned. The minute I put on shoes and walk on a hard surface I'm in trouble. At home in socks and walking on carpet I can manage quite well. Day to day is different. I do have a cane and a rollator but since I can't properly feel the car pedals I do not drive. SFN is a journey!