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Elderly parents

What age is it dangerous to have a fall

38 replies

Rainydaydreamer · 15/07/2024 10:45

I'm in my sixties and have recently dusted off my bike after many years and I'm ready to go out for a spin .

I'm wary of falling off and ending up at deaths door. So many stories on this board about elderly people having a fall going into hospital and not coming out or having a fall and their quality of life diminished.

OP posts:
chairsaregreen · 15/07/2024 22:50

I have a relative who is still cycling regularly, long distances, age 78.

I think the benefits outweigh the risks as long as you cycle safely and carefully

Livedandlearned · 15/07/2024 12:12

Is it Zolendronic acid?

BobbyBiscuits · 15/07/2024 11:35

To find out how likely your bones are to break when you fall you'll need a bone density scan.
If your bone density is below minus 2.5 then you've osteperosis. Which means you are more likely to break from standing height/walking speed. You can take medication for your bones, calcium D3 tablets and another stronger thing I forget the name of.

PashaMinaMio · 15/07/2024 11:15

A fall at any age is miserable. I know from recent experience the shock is horrendous let alone any injuries. The shock can take days to recover from.

Make sure you wear protective hi-vis clothing and helmet. Cycle with a group if you can, to get back into the swing of it. You go girl! It’s good fun.

Elphame · 15/07/2024 11:14

Do you have any risk factors like osteoporosis?

I'm in my 60s and don't consider myself at much greater risk than I was 20 years ago. I took a crashing tumble over the dog on Saturday (black dog who like to lie on a dark rug in a dark hallway). I landed on my back at right angles on the other side of the hallway ( not sure how). I picked myself up and was fine other than feeling a bit shaken up.

A cycling accident can cause life changing injuries at any age.

Schmoana · 15/07/2024 11:13

I was close witness to a very bad accident caused by going a very fast speed so try not to go too fast, and choose quiet traffic routes. If you don’t exercise your body will become more susceptible to falls, best to keep fit and enjoy it!

CrotchetyQuaver · 15/07/2024 11:10

I don't think there is a particular age as such, there are so many variables.

I think just try it and see how you get on.

countrygirl99 · 15/07/2024 11:10

I wouldn't worry about it if there aren't any other health issues. I'm 65 and still ride horses.

Loopytiles · 15/07/2024 11:10

How long is a piece of string?

there are both higher and lower risk forms of exercise than outdoor cycling in terms of accidenta. But any will be better healthwise than inactivity.

if your concern is osteoperosis putting you at higher risk of breaks you could pay for checks of your bone health.

Rainydaydreamer · 15/07/2024 11:04

Floralnomad · 15/07/2024 10:50

Any age , particularly if you are falling off a bike

True but as you get older it can lead to complications

OP posts:
AgreeableDragon · 15/07/2024 10:59

Cycling is so good for your health!
Get a good helmet, and have it properly fitted, and maybe find a local women’s group to ride with. Have a look ar British Cycling Breeze rides in your area.
Dont be put off, get out and enjoy cycling :)

Floralnomad · 15/07/2024 10:50

Any age , particularly if you are falling off a bike

Seeline · 15/07/2024 10:49

Well to be fair, any one can fall off/be knocked off a bike and end up in hospital (or worse).
The older you get the longer it will take to recover and heal from injuries. An your bones become more brittle.

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