My DH is having dizzy spells. Possible walker needed.
He now has informed me that he wants trexing poles. Does anyone have these and if you do do you think they would be safe for him? Also would they be allowed in a LTC? I'm going to check with staff tomorrow.
Jazzy, I think the treking poles could be a brilliant idea for your hubby. He still seems to have a creative mind To think of that! But with dizzy spells one of those snazzy walkers with the brakes and a seat would be smarter. For him I would trick out the walker with something he likes. Perhaps make a bag to hang on the handle bars with fabric for his favorite sports team? Remember those tassles we used to have for our bike handles? Or get duct tape patterned with his sports team logo or sparkly or some really bright neon color and decorate the handle bars or even the seat. His walker needs to MAKE A STATEMENT!
No geeking poles or canes or walking sticks! I was told " not going to happen" by the head nurse. He is to unstable now so back to physio and assessments then he may get a walker, but I expect not for some time yet. He has very low blood pressure. Sometimes 89/55. One normal is 120/60. It maybe the problem. More tests to find out the cause. One thing maybe the Parkinson's as he falls backward. Just have to wait and see.
If he has blood pressure that low, I would suspect that it might contribute to his instability even though it might not be the total cause. The dementia still could be a factor too.
All the balance rests are complete and 100% pass, so what is causing the dizziness and falls? No idea. Maybe the blood pressure, maybe the Parkinson's, and maybe the dementia!! I guess there is no answer at this time. Just watch him and keep him safe. No more going out to the park for fear of falls. I feel better about that.
Jazzy, maybe it's time for a couple of hip pads. I have an older friend who is prone to falls (for no apparent reason, either) and having already broken one hip, wears a pair of quilted hip pads. I think they are available at some of the pharmacies that carry medical supplies.
Back when I played high school football, and that was a LONG time ago, Coach Morgan used to occasionally send one of the water boys to the drugstore to buy a box of Kotex to use as padding for bruised elbows or hips or whatever. That seemed to work just fine, but I'll bet the embarrassed water boy didn't think so!