I recently had my first fall in the street, I wasn’t physically hurt but now I don’t want to go out alone, every step feels like a potential fall. I keep feeling the air brush past my face then coming into contact with the pavement. I need to regain my confidence, can anyone share tips on how they manage?
Thank you
I’ve fallen plenty of times on the footpaths, fields too so When I fall I just give myself a moment to compose myself then dust myself off and go on my way. I have began using a stick now when I’m walking across fields with the dogs just to help balance, although that didn’t help earlier when I stumbled on uneven ground and went ass over head. Grazed my arm and knee, but okay considering I hurt my knee yesterday walking to work. But hey ho, I just pick myself up and laugh it off.
Take it easy and use sticks if needed, don’t allow it to stop you from enjoying life
Would you consider trying a pair of walking poles? They are usually adjustable as hikers higher and lower them according to the gradient they are walking. Higher up might suit and give your feet something to aim for, your stride might get better and kind of take weight into your elbows. They are easy to fold up in the car boot.
You dont mention medication but maybe try to time going out when you know medication is about to kick in and make sure you allow for getting back as well. Know your route, how long it might take and stick to it.
Would walking to music help? Again having something with a good tune or beat might be good. Obviously depends on terrain as could be a distraction as well.
You could also consider using elbow pads, similar to those used by cyclists. At least if you fall you’ll know your elbows are protected from a knock. Same for knees and they might be able to go under clothes.
Above all maybe try not to think about it and with a bit of planning, just go.
Hi Punkyfish
It’s horrible, isn’t it? Like slow motion waiting to hit the ground. Confidence is in ribbons. I used to use a stick, then tried a pair of Nordic trekking poles {which are used a lot in my area because of ramblers and day walkers, so I didn’t stick out, no pun intended, like a sore thumb.} However I did not get on with them as one kept on migrating into my path and in itself became a trip hazard. Regrettably, I now use a rollator walker, but in very windy weather that acts like a sail! I think we just have to do trial and error to find out the best solution for our own needs and level of progression. Having a seat on that rollator is a bonus if I get tired.
I fully empathise, as I know many here will, over the loss of confidence and that overriding thought that comes with each planned step.
Can you speak to an OT at your local hospital for personalised input? They might be able to lend you something to try out first.
Good luck and I hope you find a suitable aid for your needs.
Thank you everyone for your replies.
I do use a stick and also have the poles. I can’t get myself up off the ground without help, so that really worries me. I am trying to do small walks to build up my confidence again
Hi Artgeet, I’m 79 and was diagnosed in 2015. aged 70. I now use a walker all the time. and have done qsince 2022 following the last lockdown. It wasn’t because falling because I’ve only fallen once outside and that was two years after diagnosis. It was a scary fall because I fell from the kerb into the road! Luckily nothing was coming but it was a ‘B’ road and lying face down wasn’t aa good idea. I think I got my walker a few months later."
Ii can’t walk unaided very far now because my balance is poor and I also freeze when walking. The last time I felt was about 5 years ago and that was in the house when I felll whilst carrying some crockery into the kitchen and started to festinate and fell using my face as a brake against a wall !!! I don’t try to do two things at once now!
My walker is always with me inside or outside and I can walk about a mile using it . I wouldn’t walk that distance without it
So I’m very careful and my walker means I don’t fall
My husband has Parkinson’s and has fallen a few times in the house. As a result his confidence is shattered and he now refuses to leave the house. his life has been diminished and so has mine. Please, please do not let this happen to you. Be careful as the other posts suggest, but be brave.
I fell yesterday afternoon walking back from town. So far I hadn’t damaged my confidence, just bruised foot, knees and hands. I do take walking stick when I walk dogs across fields but I don’t take a walking stick for walks into town though.
It’s been a funny 18hrs, waking every hour bursting for a wee and not quite making it. I haven’t drank much over night either. Felt quite shaky/jittery in the evening too.
Another day in the life of me
After I fell on Monday, although I wasn’t injured, i found that I was physically drained and mentally too. Although I was very low I still went to work and fought through it. I used a walking stick to go to and from work (1st time had too). I always use a stick when I’m walking the dogs. I’m I have that inner strength to do that as it’s given me a sense that I’m in control. I found that it has taken approximately 2 days for me to get right again, but I will always fight it the best I can.