As a senior who spends time with other seniors, I listen to what they (we) have to say. My conclusion: pride could be our downfall - literally and figuratively.
Too often we are too proud to use the help that is there for us.
I'm one to talk. I've had three black eyes due to falls, because I refused to use a cane or a walker, or to slow down.
The fact is, it's hard to admit the ways in which our bodies and minds start to fail us with age. But we have to remember that not using a cane or walker when we need one only makes us more vulnerable.
We also have to remember that there are many kind people out there who will help us over a step, or open a door when we need help. A smile of thanks is all that is needed.
It's about being realistic and giving ourselves the best chances of living a longer and healthy life, even if it means having to park our walkers beside our beds. You might prefer to have it tucked away in a corner, but it's not going to do you any good there when you have to get up in the night, as we all do.
A securely locked walker at easy reach may well save you from falling during the night,
perhaps with nobody there to help you.
And while I'm at it, here are a few other safety tips I've gleaned from personal experience.
Have lots of phone handsets around. My telephone has three cordless hand sets. Having one fixed low on my bathroom wall probably saved my life when I collapsed and broke my ankle as I fell on the bathroom floor. Unconscious for an hour, I came to and reached for a towel to knock the phone off the wall to call for help.
When the medics arrived, I happily passed out again. Had the phone been higher, the small towel I was able to grab would not have reached it. So many falls are in the bathroom. It would also be good to have a Medic-Alert bracelet or necklace on you. It's no use on the bedside table if you fall in the bathroom.
What about the little mats that we all love? They are treacherous if you rush around. My neighbour tripped on hers and had the sense to roll it up and get rid of it.
These are only a few ideas; there are many more online, through courses at the community centre and in safety handbooks aimed at seniors.
The point is, help is there. By giving up a little pride, you may ultimately end up with a lot more independence.
Olive McDonald is a senior in Steveston.
