fear of falling

I would worry a lot about falling with the grandchildren if I let myself think about it. As it is I am much more careful when I'm with them. Especially climbing up stairs or over door steps - ice I try to avoid altogether. I certainly agree that exercising makes you much more physically capable.

Oh I do feel for you, joolz. I was walking the dog today and actually thinking to myself that I don't enjoy walking the way that I used to, and it all goes back to having a bad knee several years ago. I'd twisted my knee but could still walk until one evening, on leaving a theatre in the middle of Nottingham, I couldn't put anyweight on that leg. The S.O. had to leave me propped up against a wall while he went to get the car which was parked quite a distance from the theatre. I couldn't walk properly for months afterwards and, even then, found that I panicked when I had to walk across an empty space. For someone in that frame of mind, ice is the arch enemy because, not only will it make us fall again but it is invisible, like our very fear of falling. In my case my fear now is of walking a distance from home and then not being able to get back. I do think that, perhaps, you should see a doctor as it seems to be affecting your life and you need help to get your confidence back.

I think that having a fall affects us in many ways. We realise that we don't bounce any more, our confidence takes a massive knock and we can feel we are on the slippery slope to infirmity and zimmer frames.
Our balance and flexibility can diminish with age but I think you have had a fright which does not to me suggest you are "losing it". I have been known to fall just about flat on my face - well 2 knees and 2 hands while taking Grace on her bedtime walkie . Each time I was under particular stress, DH due to have major cardiac surgery on one occasions and awaiting the "call"to granny duty when DD was due to have DGS2 another. Each time I knew I could not afford any injury! Unless you do have a balance problem I would say don't let it prey on your mind. Wear flat shoes/trainers for security, hold handrails on stairs especially carrying the baby and keep as fit and supple as you can!

Joolz I think it is quite normal to worry about causing an accident to one's grandchildren.
I have a new grandson and if I am carrying him, I ascend or descend the stairs one at a time, with him on one arm and gripping the bannister with the other. You are not alone.
I understand your fear of ice too. I fell on ice 10 years ago and broke my wrist and I am still scared of walking to the shops if it's icy. I bought some boots with good gripping soles but I still don't feel confident.
I think maintaining strength is important in falls prevention.
Since I retired I've been able to exercise more and I feel physically fitter, and more agile, than I have done for years, and this has helped to a certain extent.
Perhaps you could see a personal trainer to recommend something specific to help you?