lisaann1170
Distinguished member
- Joined
- Jun 9, 2009
- Messages
- 106
- Reason
- Loved one DX
- Country
- US
- State
- WI
- City
- Milwaukee
I suspect falling is common among ALS patients, however it gives me nightmares.
My dad has use of his left leg and has a drop foot on the right. It's increasingly more difficult for him to lift his leg to walk. He has a brace, but doesn't wear it at home. Nor does he use his cane, walker, or wheelchair in the house. He fell tonight and I know I'll be reliving this in my dreams for months to come. (Fortunately, he fell on carpet and didn't hit his head on anything.) He's lost use of his right arm and can't right himself once he's on the ground.
Honestly, I recognize that he wants to maintain his sense of independence, so I'm not being insensitive. I've told him that I'm uncomfortable with him walking as much as he does, using the steps in the house daily, and standing in the shower. His neuro told him he should not be using the steps or standing in the shower under any circumstances. He's very strong-willed and I appreciate that he wants to be independent. I simply don't know how to balance his independence with my fear for his safety!
I realize I don't have a question here. This is simply my vent to a crowd who may understand.
My dad has use of his left leg and has a drop foot on the right. It's increasingly more difficult for him to lift his leg to walk. He has a brace, but doesn't wear it at home. Nor does he use his cane, walker, or wheelchair in the house. He fell tonight and I know I'll be reliving this in my dreams for months to come. (Fortunately, he fell on carpet and didn't hit his head on anything.) He's lost use of his right arm and can't right himself once he's on the ground.
Honestly, I recognize that he wants to maintain his sense of independence, so I'm not being insensitive. I've told him that I'm uncomfortable with him walking as much as he does, using the steps in the house daily, and standing in the shower. His neuro told him he should not be using the steps or standing in the shower under any circumstances. He's very strong-willed and I appreciate that he wants to be independent. I simply don't know how to balance his independence with my fear for his safety!
I realize I don't have a question here. This is simply my vent to a crowd who may understand.