Staying safe when out and about
Does getting out and about outdoors feel less safe than it used to? Perhaps you find pavements, heavy traffic, slippery surfaces, kerbs or unexpected situations stressful. Outdoors, the environment is less predictable than at home. This can make you feel uncertain, especially if you are in pain, tire more easily or are afraid of falling. Moving about safely outdoors is important for maintaining your independence. It helps you to do your shopping, visit people, get some exercise and take part in activities. If going outdoors becomes stressful, your world can quickly become smaller.
What do you notice?
Uncertainty about going outdoors can have a significant impact on what you choose to do.
You may, for example, notice that:
- you avoid uneven pavements;
- if you are worried about slippery conditions;
- if you find busy places difficult;
- you get tired more quickly whilst walking;
- you don’t like going out on your own;
- you choose routes with benches or rest stops;
- you trip or nearly fall;
- you have difficulty crossing the road;
- you cancel your activities because of the journey involved.
Sometimes you only go to places you know. That can feel safe, but it can also become limiting.
