How to Come to Terms With Using a Walking Cane
There is a significant amount of emphasis placed on youth, vitality, and being able-bodied in society. These are qualities that everyone wants to have and embody.
Unfortunately, this is not always a possibility. Sometimes due to age, injury, or a medical condition, you may have to abandon this appearance. Of course, as these qualities are so sought after, this can be an incredibly embarrassing situation.
If you ask anyone what the hardest thing about getting used to a walking cane was, they probably would say their pride. This is because your pride and ego are probably the first things to take a hit when you first begin using a cane. For most, it can be very difficult to move past this first stage.
However, there are many people who are in the same position as you that have managed to overcome their initial reservations about using a walking stick.
Here are a few pieces of advice that will hopefully make this a much better experience for you:
1) No One Notices It As Much As You Think
It can often feel like you are taking center stage wherever you go. You can almost feel everyone’s eyes on you as you walk around with your walking cane.
The truth of the matter is that most people are a lot more preoccupied with their own lives.
In most instances, most people will probably even fail to register that you are using some kind of walking cane.
If they do notice, it is typically to help you as you use your walking stick. It is more likely that you will discover more people aiding you than ever before.
2) Make Your Cane Your Accessory
Think of your walking cane as a part of your outfit. This means dressing it up, however much you like. This way, people’s attention will not be on you or your disability but rather on your fashionable cane.
You can get one with a crazy color or pattern. You can also get some fantastic handles with carvings and stones.
You may be someone who is a little more subdued and would not appreciate calling attention to themselves. This is fine as well.
Here, it is all about having a walking cane that is sophisticated and distinguished. This way, it will appear less as a walking aid and more as an elegant accompaniment to any outfit.
3) Expect Some Questions
At the end of the day, you are going to have to endure individuals who simply cannot keep their comments or their questions to themselves. This, unfortunately, is unavoidable.
Your best option is to answer their questions as quickly and concisely as you can. If you do not feel like providing an answer, just say so.
Some individuals will be downright rude. You may even find yourself being the recipient of unfair and impolite comments. If these remarks are extremely hostile, find someone to help you overcome the situation. If not, ignoring such rude individuals is the best way to go.
4) Find Someone Understanding
When you are still getting used to the walking cane, a good tactic is to travel around with someone who is understanding about your situation.
This may be a close friend, a family member, or your partner. These individuals will help imbue with confidence.
They will also help you to see the situation as being more normal than you anticipated. You are also less likely to have to deal with any unwanted commentary from passersby.
5) Know That It is Worth It
Finally, realize that using the best kind of walking cane is more beneficial than going around without one.
You can read more about the benefits of using a walking aid here.
With walking assistance, you will be able to relieve pain and allow yourself greater stability. Your quality of life is going to improve immeasurably.
This is the main reason that you should not be embarrassed by your walking stick. It can be a great source of joy if you simply allow it.
The Bottom Line
It will definitely take some time to get used to walking with a walking cane. You will have to adjust both physically as well as mentally. Nonetheless, you will find yourself being able to face each day more bravely and more comfortably than the last.
