Late Walker Discovery

[Piero]

To all those who like myself may have been reluctant to use a walker ..... get one! After many machismo fuelled years of perilous tottering, eventually fearing a fall and hip or pelvis fracture I bought a Topro Troja. Its made I believe in Scandinavia but sold in the UK through CareCo. I was diagnosed with ataxia ten tears ago and I really should have used a walker for the last four or five. Anyway, for those who feel they might benefit but are unsure, ...... take the plunge. Not only is it easier to get around but the fatigue is far less.

[PatsyIpswich]

I completely agree a real lifechanger. No longer look at the ground.. Good posture and able to carry things x

[Piero in reply to PatsyIpswich]

Thanks Patsy. I enjoy using the walker and really appreciate the extra freedom its given me. I know I could still take a tumble and damage my hip or pelvis but at the moment the walker, though not having changed my life, has certainly made it easier.

[PatsyIpswich in reply to Piero]

Maybe life changing was an exaggeration but you get my drift. Yes, definitely take care not to fall.. it's tempting to get over confident especially at our age. X

[janfach]

I agree. I recently bought a Trust Let’s Go Out for walking to the shops and a Trionic Veloped for walks in the countryside and they have transformed my life. I can go out independently without fear of zigzagging across the pavements and falling. My friends comment that I keep up a quick pace “And she’s off!” as it’s so good to be able to get out and about without relying on someone else’s arm! I wish I’d got the Veloped during the lockdowns when walking was the only exercise available. Both my walkers come from Sweden and are extremely well made. I was embarrassed to use one at first but now I’m not as the benefits are so great.

[Piero in reply to janfach]

Diolch Janfach, I hope to extend my restricted horizons via my new toy

[woody1404]

I can endorse your comments and I too have a Topro Classic walker which I love. My GP once told me that the biggest hurdle to overcome in accepting the need for a walker is VANITY.We all know that Ataxia is incurable & progressive, so managing the condition is critical.

Without exception my experience with the public's attitude to me & my walker is entirely positive, holding doors open for me etc.

[Piero in reply to woody1404]

Thanks Woody. I actually went out for a walk yesterday evening without my wife. The first time for ages as I'm used to mobilising myself as an attachment to her arm. Good things these walkers!!