How do I strongly HINT the necessity of a cane w/o offending?

[Mrs. Piggy Bank]

It sounds like a cane would not be a good idea for him. You are describing balance issues not weakness issues. A cane is used for weakness. For example, when someone has a stroke, one side of the body will become weak, hence the use of the cane. A cane is a single pole that will not help him maintain balance. On the other hand a walker will help with balance and weakness. My grandmother uses a seat style walker. It has a leather seat for her to use to sit on when she gets tired, etc. Plus it's a bonus at games, kids concerts, etc b/c she always has her seat w/ her (no walking up and down bleachers). It sounds like (nursing viewpoint here) he needs a lot of education. Call your local hospice company as many have support systems for people who do not qualify for hospice however are in medical need. They can send a nurse out to educate him how a fall can lead to a fracture that can ultimately lead to a blood clot, embolism in the lungs, etc etc. It's not a pretty picture but many of the elderly do not believe just how fatal a major fall can become.

As far as getting him to use the equipment.... You're gonna have to bring it at some point. He may be mad but mad is better than hip surgery. And the next time he hollars for you to help him up, take the walker to him.

Wishing you luck.

[Darlene]

I'd call his doctor and get them in on the fun. When was his last checkup? Could he also have some inner ear infection that may be making his balance worse?
You are a dd Libby.

[Libby]

Dutchie HAHAHA 'how' did you tell him 'carefully' - I may be following your footsteps sooner then I'm willing to admit.

After mulling it over for a few days and discussing it with several people incl local seniors advocacy agencies - its only $43 with tax. I think I'm going to buy it and place it by the door where he puts on his shoes and gets ready to go and just explain that I'd rather have it there 'just in case' he decides he wants to try it and I can justify it being here b/c I want him to be able to use it when I take him with me to go visit DF and tour his town.

I'm always trying to think of all angles though - I hope he's not really mad or upset with me for doing this - its my one BIG concern.

[mauimagic]

LOL - it happens to all of us - honest...must admit, I am having my own version of not being able to admit to being 'older'!!

[Libby]

Ok...so I finally went out and bought the cane and put it where his shoe mat is. He walked down the hall and saw it ASAP and stopped at the mat to gawk at it for 5 whole minutes. I peeked my head outta the kitchen to see what he was doing and he was all upset. "Why is that here? Why did you buy that? Its a waste of money!! I'm not going to use it, take it back!"



So I explained that I'd rather us have it and him not need it and if he does want it or need it, its there. I told him he didn't have to use it b/c he doesn't need it 100% of the time. He just made this "I'm so mad at you I can't even look at you right now" face and walked away. My heart sank but I'm glad I did it.

Now....only have to wait and see if he tries it out and uses it. I bought him the subtle 'charcoal' cane vs attention grabbing blue one with the small base. Its better for outdoor use b/c its less of a hazard with curbs and other people walking by and getting caught on a leg. The bonus was that it was $38 no tax.

Airgo Comfort-Plus Aluminum Quad Canes - product detail

[krbshappy71]

Have you seen the movie UP? Maybe you should get tennis balls for the feet of it, they can be quite useful in emergency situations y'know.

Glad you did it, he'll come around eventually I think.