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I am scared to use my cane in public.

Posted , 4 users are following.

jazin95
jazin95

Over the last couple of months my stability has slowly become worse and my friends have been so supportive and ups lifting. However, I told my best friend about my walking stick and the expression on her face said it all. I use it all the time at home and around the house but when it comes to the public I’m terrified. I know that I just need to use it and then I will be able to do it from then on but it really worries how people would react and what people would ask. I don't know how I would respond to questions. I asked this in the other group but what to get your advice too. So I am able to get some practice advice?

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Magpie2me
    Magpie2me jazin95

    Posted

    You must do whatever is necessary Jazin to make your life more manageable. You must ask yourself if you would ever judge anyone who would need a cane to get around. I doubt that you would be surprised or that it felt weird in any way. Your friend probably did not realise that you relied on the cane more now for support. Sometimes friends and relatives do not really recognise the complexities of the condition and how at times we can have much weaker moments and that we need that extra help. You may feel a bit self conscious at first, but I am confident that you will become more comfortable going out with your cane with time. Whatever it takes to be mobile my dear! 
  • glenn06752
    glenn06752 jazin95

    Posted

    I compelely agree with Magpie!

    You really have to do what makes your life more manageable and more comfortable. Many people don't enjoy wearing hearing aids in public but it beats the alternative.

    This is not about what others might think. This is what helps you in your day to day life. 

    Quite honestly, I think nothing less of anyone with any type of walking stick, cane, or other assist. I can understand if you were walking through grammar schools all day and the little kids asked you what the stick was for but I think any mature adult would not even think to question you. You are only accountable to yourself and your well being.

    You owe nothing to anyone about your use of any type of assist.

    I wish you the very best.

  • martinarvelo
    martinarvelo jazin95

    Posted

    I had a TKR two years ago. After six weeks, the doctor told me to stop using the walking stick, and I did for a whie, but then my balance became so bad that I started using it again. Damn what other people think or say, comfort and safety is the best . .and it's an excellent weapon should anyone annoy you . . you can use it to stop the lift doors closing. . .press the button . . .point out interesting things.  In short, go for it if it makes you feel better!

     

  • Oopsy_day
    Oopsy_day jazin95

    Posted

    I can sense your feeling of vulnerability around using the walking stick. You sound as though you were surprised by your friend's response and this hasn't helped your confidence. I commend you for trying to go without the stick in public, yet I admonish you at the same time. This is such a limiting disease and as I have found out the hard way, poor balance and jelly legs have led to 2 badly broken ankles a year apart, for me. Here is something a little bit silly...I used to be in aged care and so many of my beloved oldies avoided using their canes, walkers and wheelchairs. The result was a harder existence than needed. The silly part is....I'm going to take up the chance to use an electric cart when the time comes, because I know it will extend my mobiliity. 

    We can feel so cut off from the world at times. Rather than worry about what others will say, how about you practice holding that beautiful chin of yours up and strut out (metaphorically) with pride and DARE anyone to say anything thoughtless.

    xxxxxxxxxxxxx

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