visually impaired and MSA

[567LMN]

Hi hubby has MSA along with visual impairment (retinitis pigmentosa and uses white cane). He now has fallen a few times saying his legs just went. He has been given a stroller but has been told he cannot use this outside by himself. He is upset. Does anyone know of any progress for a smart stroller -there is a smart cane available online. I have asked our local garage if a car sensor could be developed for a stroller, know clutching at straws but hubby is so keen not to always have company if out walking.

[Hidden]

Hello, maybe the RNIB would be able to advise about products.

To be honest, if he has reached the falling stage, he will keep falling. You may end up with scenarios like we did, where the neighbours keep finding him and picking him up off the ground.

It's really difficult to start to accept that you will need more care. If he is presented with a clear choice, he can decide the level of risk he wants to take just now. Every fall has the risk of injury, so option one is that he consciously still takes that risk, knowing that some injuries may have the opposite effect on his independence. And knowing that members of the public may call an ambulance if they find him on the ground.

Option two is playing it safe - being accompanied going out (with whatever kind of stroller) and also having a wheelchair to hand as a backup in case his legs start to go.

Best of luck!

Kx

[567LMN in reply to Hidden]

Thanks so much, isn’t pain so evil especially seeing it affecting a loved one. The last fall was agony for hubby, he has lost weight anyway and I wanted to wave a magic wand. There is no gadget via the RNIB for strollers. He has a white cane from sensory team, doesn’t have a guide dog. Will definitely take on your advice. Have just ordered a TENS machine, apart from fall pain hubby gets back and neck pain now often

[Hidden in reply to 567LMN]

Yeah its no fun for them sometimes. There's various archived posts on here about pain too if it helps. 🧡