Hello, I'm new here

I am nearing 70. Lately I've been more anxious about being in public. What with Covid, people just being mean and hateful, and a huge fear of falling, I'm just more comfortable at home. Anyone else?

[sassy59]

Welcome to the community VaBelle. I can understand how you feel as I have to make myself go out. I’m not personally afraid of falling but afraid of catching covid especially now as restrictions in England are being relaxed. Thinking of you. Xxx

[Hellebelle]

Hi VaBelle, 👋 and welcome to the community. I think you will find this a very supportive and kind place. I can really understand how you feel as the virus seems to have had a profound effect on lots of people. It can feel very hostile sometimes as there does seem to be so many anxious and angry people out there. It is so important to surround yourself with supportive people and make use of this site to join up with likeminded people.

Thinking of you.

Helen xxx

[Hidden]

Hi Vabelle, and welcome to our Care Community. I think you're in good company with your anxiety at being out in public. i suspect many people, of all ages, but especially those who are getting on a bit in years, have suffered a big loss of confidence since the start of the covid pandemic. I know that I have, and quite apart from those anxious feelings at times, I've lost an awful lot of my mobility from being at home too much too, so I empathise with your fear of falling. I try to make myself go out as much as possible, but there seem to be 101 excuses not to do it. With regard to your fear of falling, please consider using a walking aid if it will help. Pride sometimes makes us feel we don't want to, but there's not much pride when you take a tumble and injure yourself, so even one of those fold-up sticks might be handy to take with you for when you are feeling especially vulnerable to falls. If you feel you really can't go out at all, then is the time to take action and get some help from a professional who would be able to talk you through your fears. Take care, and again, welcome!

[Hidden]

Thank you all! I do use a cane. I have suffered 4 broken wrists, the last this summer with surgery and a plate implant. I have very bad arthritis in my knees as well. I used to go anywhere I wanted, traveled alone, flew around the country, I even did disaster services nationwide for 10 years. So, life has changed. I haven't seen my kids in 3 years. My son died this past year from cancer. I no longer go to my senior group, book or knitting groups. Isolated, but have no desire to go anywhere.