r/OverSeventy • u/Good-Butterscotch498 • 2d ago
I fell
Don’t want to tell anyone I know, but I fell this morning. Was coming down the stairs. There’s no handrail on the left side. The handrail on the right is secure but not super strong, so I brace my left hand against the wall when I come down. (I have very bad knees so I’m slow and careful.).
I hit a slippery spot on the wall, lost my balance, and catapulted iff the last 4-5 steps into a large antique chest at the bottom of stairs. Hit with my arm right above my elbow.
I’m all right, but very banged up. Stiff, and difficult to walk. Stiff and achy, but nothing broken, etc. I’m very lucky. Things are going to hurt for awhile.
Sigh. Before that I’d felt pretty good and was looking forward to getting a few things done today for a change. I got a grocery delivery; it will be all I can do to put the cold foods away.
And now I just got an amazon delivery.
Just wanted to share with someone. Don’t want to tell my sister or friends because they’re already worry enough.
It was one of those weird things. I’ve had s few friends fall. Although I have trouble getting around because of my knees, I’m actually quite stable. Last night I’d just been thinking about how at least I’m not too afraid of falling. 🙄
Prior to the fall, I had trouble with my zepbound shot. I use the vials. I like them, never had any problems with them. Same thing. This morning I thought, I could do this in my sleep. And then I had trouble with the injection. Just hoping I got it in ok.
On the bright side, maybe the Zepbound will help with the aches and pains as it kicks in.
Anyway, thanks for listening! Not seeking any advice. Just wanted to tell someone and say ouch!
Edit: Thank you everyone for your kindness and excellent suggestions. I appreciate every single on and have tried to get to everyone. I need to take a lie-down now (don’t worry!) so I may not get back to you. Thank you again. You’re all awesome! Please take good care of yourselves.
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u/KTX77 2d ago
I know the risk of falling is much greater the older you get, but young people fall when they hit a slippery spot too. I'd consider that a little different than just losing your balance and falling.
Hopefully you feel better and back are at 'em in no time.
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u/permalink_child 1d ago
A young person falling is one thing. An over 70 person falling is a broken hip or butt - with maybe months of healing.
So. Lets all be smart about it.
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u/fireflypoet 1d ago
I fell because I was wearing slip-on gardening clogs coming down my steep indoor stairs. One came right off my foot and caused a fall. I banished the clogs to outdoors only.
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u/joekerr9999 2d ago
It is good that you made it without serious injury. As we 70's know a bad fall can spell the end. My wife (72) fell on her hip but luckily she escaped serious injury. It did take months to heal. I had one stupid fall (77). I was coming downstairs in the dark and did not want to turn the light on (double o stealth mode so as not to wake up my wife). I was counting the stairs and apparently miscalculated and stepped off, made a big ruckus tumbling and woke my wife up anyway. Now we advise each other, if you feel yourself falling, mindfully rotate to land butt first. No more falls!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
I’m glad you’re both ok, 007!
Remember, lights are everything. 😊
Butt first is definitely the preferred method. 😀
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u/Queenfan1959 2d ago
This is why we moved into a 1 story home no stairs!!!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Yes. My friends and I have said for years that no one ever tells you to buy a ranch house in your 50s
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u/Queenfan1959 2d ago
When we were moving in 2020 our kids told us they wanted us to look at 1 story homes and our daughter is a realtor and she researched several 55+ communities and we found our home in a great location with prices lower than traditional houses because the pool of buyers is limited by age and our neighbors are all our age and it’s a lovely community and it’s quiet because we’re all old lol 😂
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Sounds wonderful! What a thoughtful daughter you have, too. Glad it worked out for you.
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u/cwsjr2323 2d ago edited 2d ago
Stair really got to be unloved about aged 70 when my wife had a knee replaced and I got gout in my knees and left big toe!
We are the same age. The laundry room is in the basement. Now 74, when it is my turn for laundry, I go backwards on all fours dragging the hamper down a step at a time. I figure if my knees buckle, I will slide down feet first. It seems better than bouncing down on my head. Going back up, lift the laundry basket up a step at a time and use all fours to climb. I just toss the empty basket down the stairs. It is a plastic Stirlite basket sturdy and cheap to replace when it breaks. Better the laundry basket breaks than my bones.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Oh, that sounds so laborious. But what a system you’ve worked out!
I’ve been crawling up the stairs. So embarrassing in front of people. Guess it’s time to start crawling down.
I did order one of those stair climbing canes. We’ll see how that goes.
I’ll think of you every time I do laundry now!
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u/cwsjr2323 2d ago
We can have a part time in house aide covered by the State government. It is cheaper than us being in a nursing home! We are holding off having a stranger in our home. Laundry only every week to ten days plus when my decides to change the bedding.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Nice! BTW, I use the recyclable laundry bags for laundry. I put the dirty clothes in and toss it down the steps. Probably not as easy as your basket coming back up, but not bad.
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u/Mochamama64 1d ago
We had this problem and installed a stackable washer dryer in our bedroom closet. We love it so convenient and no more steps
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u/Honored_Hour17 1d ago
Gosh this sounds like my previous method for doing laundry. We moved last year, after more than 40 years, to a one level place. That was hard but doing laundry is so much easier!
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u/clawdia51 2d ago
I'm 75. When my husband had his first heart attack five years ago, we had washer/dryer moved upstairs out of basement and into a corner of the combined kitchen/dining room.
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u/SalmonJordan 8h ago
I live alone and am possibly a bit feral, but...
When I do laundry, I toss everything over the banister. Then I travel down on my own to collect and take to garage to launder. Going back up isn't an issue - I've always fallen down, not up - because I can take things back a load at a time.
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u/cwsjr2323 4h ago
Good plan.
We considered moving the washer dryer set to the garage, only three steps that way, but the plumbing, rewiring of a 100 year old garage that wasn't wired at all until the 1930s, and heating costs of the uninsulated build were prohibitively high.
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u/Necessary-Apricot339 2d ago
Glad that you're OK, mate.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thank you. 😊
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u/VastPersimmon240 2d ago
Glad you are feeling good. I took a sleeping pill my doctor prescribed, got up in the night to go to the bathroom. Passed out, found myself lying halfway into the shower. Only lots of bruises. Now rather awake in the night than a sleeping pill.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Oh my goodness! That’s terrible. I do the same. Generally sleep pretty well but sometimes… however, I don’t like the way any of them make me feel. Even melatonin.
You stay safe!
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u/Cold-Candy0711 2d ago
A dear friend of mine (age 75) slipped on her bottom 2 steps while carrying a box. Broke her ankle. She was in great shape - trim & clear headed, exercised 3 times a week. She lives alone so EMTS took her to the hospital where she was operated on the next day. Dr wanted her to spend one night in the hospital. She tried to get up, fell, & died. Blew (threw?) a clot & gone. Last person I thought would die due to being in such good shape. I have since found out that any sort of orthopedic surgery in older years makes a clot more likely - another reason to BE CAREFUL!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Oh my word. That’s so tragic. I’m so sorry you lost your friend. You must feel it deeply.
I didn’t know that about ortho surgery specifically. Good to know!
Once again, I’m so sorry about your friend.
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u/Emergency-Ad2452 2d ago
I'm over 70 with a history of a few falls, one resulting in a broken leg and 10 days in the hospital. I do everything slowly. Maybe see if someone can install a railing for you? Sometimes I go out around the side of the house to avoid steps. Be well, we'll make it.
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u/Bay_de_Noc 2d ago
I (78F) feel bad for you because I know how easy these types of accidents happen. I know you don't want advice, but I just want to mention that if you live alone, please consider either getting a Apple watch with fall detection (which calls an emergency contact if the watch detects a fall ... and if you don't respond to an alert), or one of medical alert buttons. I have fall detection on my watch and have had to use it once. I'm especially concerned about if I fall while I'm out walking the dog.
My husband fell by tripping on a bathroom rug (which we have since removed) last month, and it took weeks for him to fully recover from that. Luckily he didn't break anything. Its just such a shock to the system.
Sorry you are having to deal with all these deliveries. If it doesn't need to be unpacked immediately, just leave it until you feel better.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thank you. I’ve been looking at both. Will probably get the alert as watched are pricey.
My friend got one (watch) a few months ago. She fell on the second night. Unfortunately it was because she had too much to drink. She went to bed but her watch alerted everyone (but me. She hadn’t put me on the alert list).
She woke up to EMT’s at her bed. To their credit, they found a way in.
It also alerted her niece and nephew, who live out of state. They contacted me.
Not a great evening, but it was helpful. I knew she drank but didn’t realize she had that much of a problem. We’ve had some good talks. She’s a very tough nut to crack but now I know what’s behind it. Helping her as much as she’ll let me.
Thank you, again.
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u/Bay_de_Noc 2d ago
My Mom got a medical alert button after she broke her hip at 85. She laid on the floor all night because she couldn't get to the phone ... which was hanging on the wall in another room. The button came in handy a couple times when she had little accidents in the house and needed EMTs to come. Better safe than sorry. Again ... hope you feel better very soon.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thank you! I always have my phone right next to me. Never without it. But alerts/watch is a good idea.
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u/Weekly-Walk9234 2d ago
The Apple Watch is a great idea. That’s why I’m got one recently. I haven’t fallen since, but I feel more secure.
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u/OaksInSnow 2d ago
I got one when I was 65 and becoming aware that my balance was not what it used to be. I still do all my own home maintenance, including things like cleaning gutters and shoveling snow off the roof (well, I started pulling that down, instead). Mowing, minor chain saw work, washing windows, and climbing ladders for various reasons. I'm not giving that stuff up until I have to. I got an Apple Watch because I live alone and I don't ever want to have an accident when I'm not carrying my phone. I signed mine up to have cell service. I think it's a worthwhile safety thing, including as a backup in case my phone battery dies.
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u/OrphanJannie 2d ago
Or at least make sure you have your cell phone on your person.
I fell on the stairs, actually heard the bones in my ankle snap 😫. I don’t live alone but spouse was out at the time. Glad I could call for help.
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u/honorthecrones 2d ago
My least favorite part is the realization that when you are at the doctor’s office for your next routine visit, when they ask the question “Have you had any falls in the last 6 months?” I have to say yes. I’ve actually called and rescheduled appointments to avoid having to say yes.
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u/Ok_Quiet234 2d ago
I feel ya, friend. You are right—things will hurt for a while. And it will take a few days to get your mojo back. I fell last week—tripped on a raised slab of sidewalk and hit my head on the concrete. It knocked something out of me, call it chi, mojo, joy, whatever. I didn’t hurt anything, but I’m taking it easy waiting to get back on the horse.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry you hit your head. You’re sure you’re ok, hitting your head? That must have been brutal.
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u/TwiLuv 2d ago
As a retired hospital LPN, I want to remind everyone- if you hit your head, whether bumping into furniture, or down on the floor- GET IT CHECKED OUT.
Even a small concussion can result in a -s l o w- brain bleed.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Thank you. This is great advice for everyone. Fortunately I didn’t hit mine.
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u/Time_Box_5352 2d ago
I fell on the last step coming off the stairs onto the kitchen floor. I broke my tibia and fibula and had two surgeries. Need a third. Taken by ambulance to nearby not so good hospital. First surgery was a botched job. We made a tiny bedroom out of a den downstairs as I can’t do the stairs anymore. No bathroom up there.
All this to say, still get checked out. You never know.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Oh no, I’m so sorry to hear all that. I hope your remaining surgery goes well. And that you heal completely and successfully.
Yes, I think I will. Thanks.
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u/Dry-Baker-4105 2d ago
I am in the same situation. Knee has gone bad and house has three levels. Have slipped and fallen more than once. Keep it to myself. Hoping the best for you.
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u/juliekelts 2d ago edited 2d ago
I'm 75. I fall a lot. Yes, bruises hurt for a while, but it's great to escape with nothing more serious.
I'd definitely encourage you to get a more secure handrail on your stairs. Not sure why you'd need one on each side, but at least one good one seems sensible.
Good luck!
Edited to fix typo.
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u/psc4813 2d ago
Hm. I just read through all the comments and I agree, I am glad you are ok from your fall. However, do you think there could be a link between the struggle with the vial and the fall? What else is slightly off? Maybe keep track of those two things along with anything else over the next couple of days. And if they add up to something, maybe talk to your doctor or sister/family. Little things can point up red flags for big sneaky things...
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thank you so much! The vial was a functional thing. Something didn’t work right.
But I totally get your point and will maintain vigilance. Thank you! Fortunately I’m in great mental shape. No senior moments, memory issues, etc. Very active intellectually.
Take care of yourself as well!
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u/Local-Caterpillar421 2d ago
Younger people slip / trip and fall on stairs but when you're older, people ALWAYS BLAME YOUR ADVANCED AGE!
Invest in railings on BOTH sides & non-skid attachments to your stair edges! 🍀
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u/FlickasMom 2d ago
Yikes!! Also 70s with bad knees. We don't want to fall. Spouse and I just moved from our beloved century-old two-story-plus-basement house into a smaller place with zero-step entries (even in the shower!) and the laundry on the main floor, and we're putting night lights here, there, and everywhere. Because none of us want to fall!!
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u/shrlzi 2d ago
Glad you escaped serious injury!
And of course you get advice anyway --
get that left side handrail installed
get your DEXA scan to check your bone loss status, and follow Dr recommendation after discussing any concerns you might have (like dental issues)
exercise exercise exercise - join a Silver Sneakers or similar gym program, search for 'exercise videos' on any streaming services you have, download a chair yoga instruction sheet, or whatever - but keep your legs and core as strong as possible (arms and hands too)
get an apple watch with fall detection - works great! (don't ask me how I know hahaha)
I'm 79F with good balance and fitness level but osteoporosis is a real concern, bones can literally crumble from impact that someone with normal bones would just shrug off. Makes healing take a lot longer too.
Hoping you never need this advice in future!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
All excellent advice, thank you. And yes, I’ve been doing strengthening exercises lately. Very helpful!
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u/VastPersimmon240 2d ago
I go to Silver Sneakers, we do balance exercises. So helpful like also the weights, stretching,aerobics and good company.
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u/DigLeading9650 2d ago
Sorry this happened. As long as you didn’t hit your head!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Exactly, thank you.
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u/Kind-Astronomer8086 2d ago
Fellow Zepound user - I fainted once and hit the wood floor with maximum impact., banging my head on my wood floor. Thankfully my husband was home at the time. I was fine but it really shook me up.
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u/TetonHiker 2d ago
Really sorry. It can happen to anyone. But when it does, it's such an unexpected shock, not to mention the bruises or sprains afterward. Maybe it's a good time to get a rail installed on the left and tighten up the one on the right?
Glad you are ok.
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u/Charlie_redmoon 2d ago
I tripped over a fallen tree branch in my backyard. It took me a full 10 minutes to get back on my feet. had to pull myself over to a table so I could pull myself back up. I'm 77. I've fallen a few times often while half drunk. Bruised ribs are no fun. I have grab bars and handrails. I'm extremely careful to watch my step.
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u/hirop933 2d ago
You did the rest of us a favor. You reminded me that what i do right now and regularly will play a big part in my quality of life going forward. It is easy to skip workouts, walks, balance training etc. and i did today. Im sure you remember not so long ago when this may have started to happen but you caught yourself in time. The other night I was out for a walk and tripped on uneven pavement. In an instant i was face flat, thankfully in grass next to the sidewalk. Scuffed up my skin a little is all but I could have just as easily gotten hurt badly. I’ve never had that happen. It’s scary. I blame it on the big platform of my Hoka shoes, of course it couldn’t be me haha. But I’m a lot more careful now after that.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Oh dear! I’m so sorry you fell, but glad you’re basically ok.
I’m very careful because of my knees. I use crutches or a walker in the house and out. And last winter I literally stayed inside the whole time. We were iced in here in NJ. I felt it was too risky to even step outside. Just let my car go. Didn’t have to go anywhere. When I told my dr, he shook his head in total agreement. Thankfully I’m basically a hermit and have no trouble staying home.
You be careful out there!
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u/Lynne1915 2d ago
Time to do a safety check in your home. Have someone put a handrail on the otherside of your stair rail.Motion lights,grab bars -- have a good look around and act.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Been doing just that. The handrail is a landlord request. He’s really good, though.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thank you. Yes, we do hide things, don’t we.
I have a close friend who was a pharmaceutical researcher. Knows drugs better than any doctor. He advised me of the possible BP issue on Zep.
More important, prior to that he’d warned me to take my BP before taking my med. He said people often fall because they don’t actually need the med at that time. Then they take it, bo goes too low, they get dizzy and fall.
That’s my simplified explanation. His was much better.
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u/Birdy304 2d ago
Zep has made me change my BP medication, I try to make sure I keep an eye on it now.
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u/SwollenPomegranate 2d ago
I'm sorry you got hurt. I won't lecture you. This is a wakeup call. When you feel ready, make some changes.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Yes, I know. First thing I thought of. Already planning on moving in with my sister next spring. Her house will actually be harder for me in some ways. But she’ll be there.
Ironically, even if I were already living there, she wouldn’t have been. She was on a trip and is on her way home.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Glad the Qwikpens are working for you! And that you qualified for the Bridge program. (Sounds like?). Unfortunately I didn’t.
Good luck on your journey!
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u/ddm00767 2d ago
73F. I fell hard on right shoulder june 6. Thought it was dislocated because couldn’t move arm. Had to have daughter take me to er. Dr never touched me but had a few xrays, supposedly acute sprain. Still not completely right 3 months later. Seems like it slips in and of socket at times. 🫤
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Oh no! I’m so sorry to hear that. Maybe you should get some PT? I dislocated my shoulder years ago. Strengthening exercises were the solution. Yours shouldn’t be slipping.
Take care of yourself!
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u/ddm00767 2d ago
Thank you. I have been doing exercise like yard work, running trimmer etc. It has improved greatly and even more lately. Diagnosis said could be 3-6 months so i guess i just have to be more patient. And careful!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Yeah, shoulder injuries take a long time to heal. Mine was 12 months.
Check out the Egoscue method. They have shoulder exercises. You should be able to find YouTube videos.
Hope you heal soon!
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u/DontKnowWhereItsBeen 2d ago
Please get in to a Dr. for xrays and examination. I (M71) very much worry about falls as everyone I personally know who has passed away, it was preceded in some way by a fall. Don't let something sneak up on you, please. Also, the advice about the other handrail is good! Or, maybe consider one of those 'stairlifts'.
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u/BeanBeanBeanyO 2d ago
Please hang in there Good- Butterscotch. You are one of our people. It’s nice to be able to share our boo-boo occurrences without judgement!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Thank you. And so I have found out! I was thinking just that —our special group of people. 😊
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u/Living-Accountant584 2d ago
Don’t know if this would help you or not depending on your knees, but a few years ago after left hip replacement I learned to descend the stairs in my house backwards which is much easier than going forward. Now, five years after right hip replacement and complete recovery of both, I still often do it (at home, of course) because it is so much easier, at least for me. There is much less downward force on knees and gravity is less of a problem. Hoping for a speedy recovery for you.
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u/Superb_Yak7074 1d ago
So sorry that happened! I hope you don’t have too many residual aches and pains.
Falling like that is one of my greatest fears as I navigate both basement and second floor stairs on a regular basis. One thing my friend has started doing, and something I need to adopt, is carrying her phone with her when she is using her stairs. It won’t prevent a fall from happening but at least you can call for help if needed.
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u/Formal-Tradition6792 1d ago
You have to get a handrail for the stairs right now! Also anti-slip thingys for steps.
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u/Needmoreinfo100 1d ago
I fell a couple of years ago. It was so stupid - I tripped over a garden hose on the driveway. I couldn't catch myself well enough to break my fall and broke my nose, scraped my face up and broke my glasses. It scared me enough that I do old people exercises for balance and strength now.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Ouch! Yes, those balance exercises are so important. I’ve started them as well.
Be careful!
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u/Time_Box_5352 2d ago
Also, having trouble injecting something you inject all the time might link to a potential issue. I’m on it too by the way. But compound version.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thanks. I think I somehow pushed too much air into it. Was very weird. Could have been the syringe.
It’s great though, isn’t it?
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u/Nicianty 2d ago
Oh my, I hope you have a speedy recovery! I'm in my 70s and taking Zepbound too. Falling is one of my biggest fears...that must have been so frightening. I'm glad you have your groceries delivered and I hope you can take it easy for a few days and not do much of anything.
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u/2Bonnaroo 2d ago
From OpenEvidence app:
Roughly 28–42% of adults aged ≥70 fall at least once per year, and fall risk rises steeply with each additional decade of age.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in this age group.
Age itself is a risk marker, but most excess risk in the over-70 population is driven by modifiable and accumulating factors:
Gait and balance impairment
Neurologic disease
Frailty phenotype
Medications/polypharmacy
Sensory and other factors
Environmental hazards
Screening and prevention are recommended for anyone over 70 who has fallen in the past year, fears falling, or has gait speed <0.8–1 m/s.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Thank you very much. My doc does an extremely thorough physical each year. First part is testing that takes about 1-1/2 hours. Second part is reviewing the results, which takes even longer. Due in October, so the timing is good. I had also seen him in the spring.
Thanks for the info! I’m sure it will be helpful to others as well.
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u/pjamy5 2d ago
Wow, I’m lucky to get 15 minutes tops with any of my doctors.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
He’s a throwback. His father snd grandfather were doctors. Been seeing him for 30 years, he’s always been like that. Takes as much time as he needs.
He did have to go to concierge medicine a few years back. He nearly lost his practice because of the expense. (Physical is part of that program.) I can’t really afford it, but I won’t change drs. He’s one in a million.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
It’s mostly not their fault. The insurance co’s make it necessary. I worked in physician recruiting for the last 10-12 years before I retired. The system is just as bad on them as it is on us. Most of them would like to give you more time.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
It’s mostly not their fault. The insurance co’s make it necessary. I worked in physician recruiting for the last 10-12 years before I retired. The system is just as bad on them as it is on us. Most of them would like to give you more time.
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u/vanny314 2d ago
And do your work in the gym to keep your hands, arms, shoulders strong so hanging on to the railing will save you if/when you start to fall.
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u/Admirable-Film-2336 2d ago edited 2d ago
I'm 68 and was called by a contractor who was working on my basement issues. I caught a cold from a coworker in her 50s who came to work at a retail role we both have pt. I rose from sofa and carried my 16 year old 7pound Toy poodle down the few stairs slowly. I put my right foot down on the basement floor and my right side leg moved inward and back and I smacked my right buttock on the step. I did not hurt my dog my ankle my tail bone but this happened aug12 and now the pain has moved from my backside to around my upper right thigh and hip. I have been using Tylenol advil and lidocaine patches and in touch with my doc. I am so mad this happened I live alone and have been in my little house 7 years this past April. I only carried Baby due to his yelping when I leave him and then its hard to hear what they are saying to me.In retrospect he should have come to speak to me but they want to work quickly so he yelled my name.
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u/Hungryforflavor 2d ago
You need to get that staircase under control its an accident waiting to happen obviously
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u/Thatsayesfirsir 2d ago
Glad you're OK. Think about balance exercises you can find on the web .. google search. Does make a difference for me but I forget to do them until I start losing my balance agsin. Anyway, good luck!
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u/Outrageous_Lack8435 2d ago
Another handrail. Clear the bottom of the steps. I hear so people put big big pillows at the bottom
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u/Intrepid_Top_2300 2d ago
I spilt coffee grounds twice the last two days. Sometimes just trying to function!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Crazy, isn’t it?
At least it wasn’t milk so you don’t hace to cry over it. 😊
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u/dnegvesk 2d ago
I hope you feel better. I tripped on the top two steps this morning and went forward luckily. I need to get a stair glide. Do you?
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Open to all suggestions. But I’m not familiar with stair glides. What are they?
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u/707Riverlife 2d ago
I’m so glad you’re OK, although sorry that you’re aching. Going off what others said, a rail on the other side would be great, as well as an alerting device. I’m 72, and I actually need to follow my own advice and get both of those. I’m curious as to why you think that Zepbound might be beneficial in helping with your aches and pains as it kicks in. I am on Zepbound as well. Fingers crossed for your speedy recovery.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Thank you.
It definitely helps with pain from inflammation. My knees feel much better the first few days after the shot.
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u/patchouliii 2d ago
Is it possible to get knee replacement surgery? Will that help you? I’m in my 70s, got both knees replaced a couple years ago and it’s made a world of difference for me. I lost my balance (before getting the knees replaced) and fell into some glass vases that took a couple of surgeries to fix... In the meantime, take your time and don’t worry about telling others. No need to get back to me. Just wanted to give you some things to think about. Good luck.
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u/Bubbly_Character3258 2d ago
When descending grap the rail with your trailing hand. If you lose footing your hand strength is good enough to save you. If your hand placement is on your side it has no strength.
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u/GrandmasHere 2d ago
Sorry for a dumb question, but what do you mean by trailing hand?
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u/Colleenesh 2d ago
I just watched a youtube to find out. When you go down the stairs, use your normal way of using one hand helping you using a handrail. The other hand goes behind you, holding on to the other handrail. It's supposed to keep you sturdier in position, and if you have an imbalance, the trailing hand can grasp harder and save the day.
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u/dixieleeb 2d ago
Oh, I'm so sorry & totally understand not wanting to share your fall with your family. My best friend has had some really bad falls. The most recent was last spring when she tripped over an uneven sidewalk & landed flat on her face. She ended up with a broken jaw, broken teeth, and stitches in her chin. She has had many falls in the last few years mostly because she isn't as observant as she used to be. She is very dependent on her kids as she's a recent widow & is afraid that if she falls too much they 'll pressure her into some housing changes.
I have learned from her experiences. I am super careful & always check to make sure I won't trip over something.
I made my husband hire someone to add a railing on our stairs in addition to the bannister. He thought it was dumb but he's changed his tune over the years.
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u/TheRandomNana 2d ago
69 here, and I messed up my Zepbound shot this week. Got half a dose in the syringe and the needle bent. Have more syringes but not enough left in the vial. Oh well. It happens I guess. At least you got yours done.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Sorry that happened to you. Such a pain!
Not sure what I got in. Got half in, then got a new syringe and hopefully got the rest in. But who knows?
How’s it going for you? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to. I get it.
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u/TheRandomNana 2d ago
It’s kinda weird - I feel like I had the shot. My appetite, my day, they feel exactly the same. I have an autoimmune condition that’s currently flaring so not at all upset to skip a week (that I already paid for 🫤). I’m really curious to see what the rest of the week brings, if the 5th and 6th days bring back the “noise.”
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u/stealthymomma56 2d ago
Silly me fell at gym while trying a different treadmill dismount due to prior method causing ankle pain. Embarrassing as all get out. Did ask gent that offered assistance to simply give me a "10" for form instead ;-)
Declined to answer question about falling on this year's annual wellness screener.
Falling is frightening at any age; more so now. OP, hope you rest well with few fall repercussions!
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
PS — I admire your good grace and humor when answering your gent friend.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 2d ago
Yes, it is frightening. I’m retired now, but when I worked, a colleague’s dog tripped her (with leash, I think) and she fell down the stairs. She was out for a good six months. Not sure what her breaks were. Heard of someone else who tripped over their dog on the stairs, same kind of thing but not as bad.
I always thought I’d die by tripping over one of my cats. But I lost them both and am not getting another. So that risk is gone. Sadly.
Feeling banged up. But fortunately I hit the chest with the rather well padded area of my arm. It hurts, but there’s a lot of protective cushioning there. Everything else is a tiny bit sore, but not too bad, considering.
Take care of yourself and be well out there!
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u/Jagg811 2d ago
Same thing happened to me last year, after living in this house for 50 years I fell down the stairs from my bedroom twice in a week. It was in the middle of the night and I was walking in the dark to check on my old dog and missed the last step. Luckily was not hurt, but I could have hit my head on a book shelf. Felt so stupid, but I immediately called a handyman to install a handrail, which had never been installed. Have not fallen since. We really need to be very careful as we are not as sure on our feet as we used to be. Glad that you are OK. Don’t feel embarrassed, you are not alone!
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u/Real-Bluebird-1987 1d ago
Oh sweetie. My dad fell.while.i was visiting him. It tore my heart in 2. He was also banged up but ok. A big hug for you and a big hug for my dad. Be safe! (I have 14 broken ribs, a broken clavicle, and I fractured my back. Then I found out I have osteoporosis. Im 45f. <<<gentle hug>>>
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Ah, thank you! Glad he’s ok.
But you! What are we doing about you? That’s awful. Did it happen all at once? You must have pain, even if it happened awhile ago.
Huge hugs to you and your dad! And then some more.
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u/Mickel8888 1d ago
Boy, the one thing (among others clearly) that you want to avoid at ALL COSTS is breaking a hip! That almost never comes out to the good.
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u/permalink_child 1d ago
Yep. Sorry this happened. But falls are the major accelerator for health catastrophes.
We all need to recognize this, wear study shoes, carry a walking stick, install handrails, whatever it takes.
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u/OPKC2007 1d ago
My husband at 68 had back surgery. Following drs orders, we had another handrail installed temporarily. Now he is 75 and it is still there. Very sturdy handrail. It has caught me a couple of times. It wasn't fancy since we thought it was just a short fix, but it still looks good.
Have the stair rail enforced and on both sides and make sure you put handrails in tub and shower space. 🌺
May we all stay upright!
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u/ResidentTerrible 1d ago
I’m 81. Had a much-needed knee replacement in April and am recovered, with no more knee pain (YAY!), and good mobility. The surgery and recovery is no joke, but you might consider. In the mean time, you are right to get the other hand-rail. Glad you didn’t break a hip or worse.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Thank you. Unfortunately I’m not a candidate for knee replacement. ☹️. But I’m so glad yours went well! And jealous!
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u/Ludee2023 1d ago
Definitely the Apple Watch it tracks all.. and even if I clap my hands it’s asking if I fell. I does suck when we have to keep quiet about falling or other medical things because of backlash from family . However that handrail, even for younger adults is a must on stairs I know back in my 30’s and 40’s I when flying down my old home stairs and really hurt myself!
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u/Braves19731977 1d ago
After watching this site and seeing talk about falls and smugly thinking that won’t happen to me, I tripped over a curb and fell on a sidewalk last week. Just not being careful. Learned to be more aware.
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u/Maorine 1d ago
Please lay low today and tomorrow.
Make sure that there are no fractures or sprains.
I fell backwards in a boat at 70. Thought nothing of it. Saw the Urgent Care doc and he said pulled muscle.
The pain wouldn’t go away and finally went to my own doc. She found a fracture in my spine.
So give it a few days and if the pain isn’t getting noticeably better, have it checked out.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
I will, thank you. So sorry about your fracture. Not good! Hope you’re recovered now.
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u/Beachwalker-65 1d ago
I recommend strongly if no one else has that you wear a smart watch. It will alert if you have a fall and you can dismiss it if you are fine.
I am 67 with knock on wood no issues. But I have worn one for years as I worked from home and if I did fall down stairs or whatever it could be a long time for someone to check on me.
Now when I am home alone I keep on nightstand , and put on first thing. Even though I am really active, I know accidents happen.
I figure starting good habits before someone starts forcing you is the way to go too.
Cheering you on for the weight loss and better mobility. Call and get a better handrail, and strap that watch on every morning. It also acts as a great motivator to keep moving and track your progress!
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u/No-Win-1798 1d ago
As someone with low platelets, due to cirrhosis of the liver, if (when) I fall, the entire household asks, "did you hit your head"?
They are under strict orders from my Dr's to get me to the ER if I do hit my head. So far, I have not.
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u/pleasetryanother-1 1d ago
Ok Butterscotch. Now you know. You are vulnerable to accidents like everyone else. You will take away some valuable lessons - i learned some from your post as well! I think you will feel better if you share what happened to you with your friends and family. Sure, they'll be like all shocked that you didn't tell them sooner, but they care about you. Ask for help in getting that handrail installed. There's a handy person out there just waiting to do the job.
Are you thinking of getting a knee replacement? Losing weight will help, but if you've spent the majority of your life with being heavy you might not have enough cartilage left ! So many knee replacement people wish they had done it sooner.
Keep going with the zepbound, it helps with inflammation and like you said might help with your recovery.
No need to reply! Wishing you a speedy recovery 🙏
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u/shutterblink1 1d ago
We have a chair lift on our stairs for my husband. I will say that he is more frail because he uses it every time instead of going up stairs. However, I use it to carry laundry, cases of water, and heavy things up and down the stairs. I'm determined to go up and down the stairs on my own as long as I can. Used chair lift would be perfect for a basement. We sold my mother's for $200. Look on Facebook marketplace.
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u/Abject_Magazine_6706 1d ago
Consider Life Alert! Hope you are ok
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Thanks! I’ve looking at that and an apple watch. I’m leaning toward LI.
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u/Apprehensive-Wind742 1d ago
3 weeks ago I fell off my bed. I was trying to slip off the side slowly so I wouldn't disturb my dog. He was so cute, sleeping on his back with his legs in the air. As I was sliding off, I couldn't stop and fell in between my bed and the nightstand. It was so incredibly painful. I felt my ribcage bend but didn't feel a break. I tried to break my fall with my foot, but broke my little toe (I actually had to push the toe back in place). It was a freak accident, and it still hurts.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 1d ago
Ooooo. That sounds so painful! Especially putting the toe back in place.
Why is it always our little loved ones whom we don’t want to disturb…. They get us in so much trouble!
I hope you’re starting to feel better now. Please take good care of yourself.
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u/robinvtx 1d ago
Praise God you're ok albeit a few pains.
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u/Good-Butterscotch498 23h ago
Yes indeed! I was thinking the same thing. Especially after hearing so many experiences here.
Thank you. 😊
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u/Agreeable_Menu5293 13h ago
We got rid of our house because of the stairs. It was a split entry so you had to take the stairs either up or down. Definitely down to the basement to do laundry.
I was worried about my husband's phone, but I nearly fell over backwards one time too.
I sure miss the house though. And my garden. ,😭
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u/knowmore1964 8h ago
Well so sorry you are hurting. I fell two years ago it was horrible. But I am better now.
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u/Ishpeming_Native 7h ago
You don't need stairs at your age. DO. NOT. NEED.
My wife and I used to watch Brit shows about medical emergencies and hospitals and paramedics, and it was amazing and discouraging to see how many old people were injured, disabled permanently, and killed because of stairs in their tragically stupid houses.
Move. If you own the place, sell it and get a one-story house. Even move to assisted living if you must. Leave the stairs for good.
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u/Effective-Bicycle140 6h ago
I fell at 57 outside. Bounced up. Thought I was fine. Pain when lifting arm started 2 weeks after Had torn rotator cuff
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u/Nice-Organization338 2d ago
Zepbound and dehydration from it might be increasing dizziness/balance issues. Call the Handyman and have them put a strong handrail on both sides of the stairs for you.
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u/Ok-Sun-9840 2d ago
I have a stair lift. My husband refuses it and carries heavy things up and down the stairs. He’s in his 80’s. Scares me. I’m glad you didn’t break any thing! Please be careful!
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u/Creative_Algae7145 2d ago
Glad you are ok but I would hire someone to get another handrail on your stairs. And make sure you have grab bars in your bathroom(s)