Struggling with Imposter Syndrome and Mobility Aids

There's a lot of good to be had by using the aids you need. It helps you stay as independent as possible. 💕

I started using a walking stick as a cane at my doctor's recommended it. He said a walking stick is better than a cane as it can help from slouching to use a cane also you don't feel as old as a walker or cane may make you feel plus it can be a great conversation starter. I also noticed that cashiers and others don't seem to think I am as contagious as when I used my forearm crutches! Now on a great day I still walk a little, on a good day I use my stick, on a not so good day or shopping I use my wheelchair. Mostly these days I use my chair or my children.

I started using a cane when I realized I basically was house bound because of the pain I have after walking for just a little bit. I definitely still have a bit of that imposter syndrome yelling at me, but with time it gets quieter. When I saw a benefit from using mobility aids I understood that I needed them. It’s nobody else’s businesses, hopefully remembering that can help you move forward. 💙

Oh, for mobility items, you may want to check with the hospital, local churches, etc. Many offer them free either forever or for limited duration.

Couple suggestions. 1 See if you can try it before buying one. Why? I tried the store mobility scooter at Walmart. It was worse for my condition than not using it. 2 think about a transport chair. Can often push a shopping cart with it and only sit down when needed. 3. Since covid, many stores offer free pickup. I used this for 3 years and now i try only to use it when i want things from more than 1 area of the store.

Know that it's not something to feel guilty about. It is a real medical condition, and there is no shame in using something that helps you to continue to do your normal for however long you need it! I am currently using a walker and a shower chair. Do I like it? No! But it helps me stay a little more independent.

I don't currently have mobility aids, but I need them. I can't make it through a grocery store trip or anything similar without needing to sit down somewhere/collapsing, even if it's on the floor. If I want to guarantee my independence and safety, I've learned that I need to get a wheelchair. Unfortunately they're so expensive 😭

I see people looking at me on my mobility scooter cos I'm not heavily obese or old, yet I struggle to walk. I can see them trying yo figure it out but I don't care, I used to feel like a fraud as it were but I know the constant pain and how slow and painful walking is, I can smile in my scooter as I'm not in so much pain. I can feel the wind in my hair,I have independence. You do you as my daughter says

I agree. Having an “invisible illness “ is hard for people to understand us. I personally use a cane occasionally because I’m in an pain. Don’t worry about what others think, I know it’s easier said than done but once you put your needs first you will feel so much better.

I sometimes need a walker or a wheelchair... just depends on the day. On good days, I don't need either one. It's a struggle getting people to accept the limits of those of us with chronic pain. It took me years. You are not alone. I have a neighbor with a lot of balance issues who has to use canes a lot. I find that a walker helps me better.

I started using a cane when I began to have minor balance issues. As a retired nurse, I've seen people fall and break a hip and go downhill from there. I have no interest in doing that. I know people who refuse to use a cane out of vanity who are shakier on their feet than I am. No on has ever questioned my need for the cane.