On Life and Love After 50 eNewsletter – November 1, 2024
by Tom Blake Columnist
Last week’s article, A Night at the ER, about senior balance and falling, triggered the most responses from Champs ever. Most were well wishes to Debbie, my significant other, who had tripped on thick grass and injured herself when she landed on the concrete sidewalk. Here is a message from Debbie to Champs.
“To all of Tom’s Champs who were so kind, thoughtful, and supportive with your words of inspiration, stories, as well as very warm get-well wishes. I want to thank all of you, as hearing from so many of you not only cheered me up, during what I would call one of the most difficult weeks of my life, but was also uplifting for Tom, which was also a very difficult week for him.
“The kindness he has shown you over his 30-plus years of writing is reciprocated back to him when he hears from you. I would also encourage all of you to write to him when you need or want to. Also, at the end of this eNewsletter, there is a link to Senior Safety, on the AgingCare.com website, something I discovered last week when searching for a concise list for myself as well as others. Again, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you for all the well wishes. Debbie”
Here are a few of those responses.
Delores, “Been there a few times. No fun.”
Carolyn, “My heart literally stopped after reading the first two sentences! I thought ‘Oh no, not again.’ Falls are most dangerous for seniors no matter how strong we are. I’m happy to hear that Debbie is doing well! Please continue to take good care of her and yourself!!
Thyrza, “Your description of your unexpected visit to the ER to accompany Debbie, reminds me of my ER experience last Tuesday. My medical oncologist called me early that morning, saying he saw an inflammation of my appendix. He urged me to go to the ER at Orange Coast Memorial in Fountain Valley where I had my cancer treatment.
“My son drove from San Juan Capistrano to Huntington Beach and took me to the ER. With all the blood work and a digital copy of my CT scam, the surgeon on duty decided I needed a laparoscopy to remove my appendix. I was in the hospital for two days. I am well into recovery. It shows how unpredictable life can be.I wish a speedy recovery for Debbie.”
Curtis, “Six hours to be seen and out is fast. Around here, it’s 10-12 hours just to be seen.”
Bill, “Thanks for sharing, I’m glad Debbie is ok. This is an excellent reminder to us seniors.’
Wayne, “You took good care of her. In one of your columns, you might suggest that seniors take exercise classes that stress balance. I’ve been doing it for 4 years and it’s quite helpful. A fall can happen at any time. Hope she has a full recovery, and you can complete that dinner date.”
Margo, “All I can say is OMG! Excellent newsletter this week and you can never remind the seniors too often to be careful. Even though I try to be careful, I’ve had two mishaps this year (while hiking and bike riding), both were pretty bad but I’ve recovered.
“I was very lucky. Nothing broken but still recovering in some spots from the deep abrasions.”
Gloria, “What an ordeal for you and Debbie, I am happy to hear that she is not more seriously injured although bad enough by the sound of your story.
“As we age, senior falls and injuries are not uncommon, we just don’t see them coming. I also think it takes a mental toll when you’re injured.”
Cherie, “I had a near-death experience last year. I had to call 911 but was so out of it that I could hardly dial the number. No one was around to help me. I was barely able to dial. The ambulance came and took me to the ER. I received a blood transfusion. I had a stomach bleed and would have bled to death had I not been able to get help.
“What I learned: I now have a panic button which is a direct line to emergencies. I recommend this for all seniors. I also will be eternally grateful to the men and women in emergency. I was in intensive care for one night and then in the hospital for two more nights. We must know how to take care of ourselves and use the wonderful facilities at our disposal.”
Jim, Always be careful of our surroundings and try to balance as much as possible. Always go to ER if there is a head injury. And look around for any kind of hazard that can cause a fall. Be careful of ladders. Try balancing on one foot for 5-20 minutes.”
(Hey Jim, how about balancing on one foot for 10 seconds?)
Carol, “I worry about falling every day…old age!”
Dr. David Allen, a fraternity brother of mine, the State Commissioner of Health for Kentucky, 1980-83. “Trips to the ER are exhausting and terrifying!”
Bonnie, “You made the best decision. I have been to that emergency room. They are great. Prayer for Debbie for a full recovery. God hears us when we ask.”
The link to the General home safety tips that Debbie referred to is
I recommend you click on this link and print out a copy for yourself. Granted it seems a lot to comprehend. However, implementing just one tip might save you or a loved one from a fatal fall.
Tom’s Final Comment: I appreciate your participation. If none of us falls or has a serious accident this week, we will get back to the senior dating topics next week. Send me your dating questions and comments.
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