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 also use an ap called NYMBL which increases balance.
Excellent tips! I do that but the one about getting on the floor to avoid a fall is a great idea. I lose balance and get dizzy so many I do, but this is a fantastic reminder for all! Thank you.
@maggieb892 That's amazing Maggie- dogs are so smart and especially when they know you need a little care!
Thanks Maggie! Here's a link to NYMBL :
https://nymblscience.com
I also think it's a good tip, but the times I have fallen, it happened so fast I didn't have time to think and react. But if I feel a bit dizzy or light-headed, I sit down right away.
It’s scary. Falling and everything that makes that happen. I had bad falls too. I need grab bars installed in the shower. I hug the walls and move very slowly. You are right. When it happens fast, there is no way to prevent it. All we can do is like when we are defensive drivers, defensive movers. Safety in the new year.
Did you go for physical therapy?
If not why not?
I had two weeks in rehab and then 2 weeks after coming home. I continue to go to the gym twice a week. Part of my problem is I fell on a hip replacement. My walking is fine and going up the steps is not a problem but when coming down, my leg will not bend as it should. I become a fall risk.
This is a great discussion for all ages. I was lucky not
to get injured on 3 falls in my mid 70s. My sons gifted
me an Apple Watch after I fainted. It includes a heart
rate monitor and has a fall alarm feature.
I wear proper footwear and hike with walking sticks,
cell phone and a companion. My cardiologist advised me to keep hydrated. Helps to read about best maneuvers
for falls and practice getting up off the floor. I know
I could be lightheaded after sitting for a long time and
arise carefully. I still workout and and can run a few
laps on the indoor track. Keep moving.
I'd like to know more about the Apple Watch. I have a Fitbit but I'm not really thrilled with it and I think I would like the features you mention.