Mom Won’t Use a Cane Because She Thinks It Makes Her Look Old

Dear Carol: My mom has always been a fashion slave. She’s looked young for her age from a distance due to rigorous weight control, but she’s recently been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Lately, she’s experienced several falls due to poor balance and often inappropriate shoes. Now, with osteoporosis, she’s at an increased risk of serious injury. I’ve finally convinced her to wear sturdy flat shoes which is progress, but she refuses to use the cane her doctor suggested because she thinks it makes her look old. How do I convince her that she’s taking terrible chances in a futile effort to fool people into thinking she’s young? – SH

Dear SH: I’m sorry your mom is being so contrary about using a cane. Your worry is justified.
It’s a sad commentary on our ageist society that older people often refuse to use not just mobility aids but hearing aids because they fear looking “old.” One step forward is that…

Continue reading on Inforum for the full column about how to help an older adult realize how serious a bad fall can be and why a cane or walker can even be a stylish way forward:

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