My dad, 92, mixed vascular and Alzheimers, still walks well or he did until recently. Last week I accompanied him on a walk of a little under a mile that proved to be too far. To begin with he was fine, but as he began to tire he became more unsteady. He has started to lean forward and stumble especially on a downward slope. It was a circular route back to home and after two-thirds of the distance I had to start holding on to him. At least twice I had to stop him falling down. I don't know if this stumbling when walking is old age or dementia or a bit of each. There is nothing wrong with his legs.
Obviously he should not walk so far but I want to encourage gentle exercise.
Have others had similar experiences? Would a walking stick help?
Obviously he should not walk so far but I want to encourage gentle exercise.
Have others had similar experiences? Would a walking stick help?