I am asking this question for myself. I am 77 and have had many falls in my life but none as severe as a couple of weeks ago. I got up in the night and took five steps to the bathroom and my body collapsed, hitting my forehead with full force. Thank God I did not hit the tile but instead the wood of the floor. I have been falling since I was a kid but things are getting much more serious. I am still suffering after effects of the concussion and my doctor thinks it likely happened because of a sudden drop in blood pressure. I did not go to the ER for a CT scan because of the fear of covid. I think it would be wise to wear head protection accompanied by a cane (ugh) and wondered if any of you have any experience or suggestions as to brand, etc. I am researching this online but there's nothing better than a recommendation by someone familiar with the product. I also like to work in the garden in the spring and there are many dangers lurking out there. Thanks in advance for any guidance anyone might have.
I am a bit of a rare bird in terms of blood pressure meds in that my doctor tried SEVEN with me, ALL UNSUCCESSFUL. So since I was over 100 pounds too heavy, I lost that.
NOW, stress elevates my systolic number but the diastolic number is low, and solid as a rock.
I’m sure you and your doctor have investigated that, so have you considered a few sessions with a PT or OT? There are some “fall proofing” programs that an produce good results.
The Loved One for whom I’m responsible attended one and was trained to use a cane correctly. I think it helped. You are obviously a very self sufficient individual, so increasing your ability to remain safe would likely have some appeal for you.
GOOD LUCK!
Neither a quad can or a walker/rollator will help if the reason for your falls is because you are blacking out temporarily, you really must make figuring out the cause a priority. A bedside commode might be a more practical option if it is predominantly happening at night.
If you get a cane, consider one that is encased in a round wire "cage" such as this one:
https://www.alimed.com/stable-base-quad-cane.html
The extra "feet" help provide stability beyond just the base of the cane.
I would think a football helmet might offer good head protection, or something like boxers wear.
I would also agree that PT would help with balancing, while strengthening your legs and ankles (I once had ankle PT along with a meniscus tear PT) and sometimes still remember to do ankle PT (but not often enough!).
Getting a MedicAlert is another good suggestion.
Please check with your doctor and describe your symptoms fully.
My mom has Parkinson’s disease. She has mobility issues due to Parkinson’s disease.
The doctor ordered home health and rehab.
There are specific exercises that aid in balancing and gaining ‘core’ strength. They do help if you are able to do them.
My mom was in her 90’s when she did the program and she worked really hard during each session and it absolutely helps.
Mom still needs her walker, but exercising definitely makes a difference in how we are able to function in our daily lives.
Maybe sitting up for a minute or two before standing and using a walker.
A cane is just another danger and can knock teeth out, so I don't think that you want to use a cane when you think that you will fall.
Please ask your doctor to find out why you are falling and how to treat the medical condition that is causing this.
I can't give you any advice about head protection. You might want to consider a walker rather than a cane for a bit more stability.
But I do commend you for trying to plan ahead to minimize and injury that you might sustain in a fall.
Have you discussed with your doctor having an occupational therapist come into your home to asses your situation? My mom had a few meetings with them, they showed her what actions she was taking that put her at the worst risk to fall.
Do you have a support system in place? Or a plan for if the time comes, where you will be able to live to get the support you need?
I hope someone here can give you some practical advice!