Instruction on using walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility assistance devices is needed. As a nurse, I have had to educate numerous people on safety and the proper use of equipment
Oh gosh, yes. I've observed some egregious misuse of mobility assistance devices over the years. Same for vehicle restraints - carseats and such. If folks seem receptive, I might offer some gentle "assistance" ... but you know how that oft goes!
This is such a detailed and useful post. I remember seeing occasional unmarked open holes in the sidewalk in El Cangrejo when I visited Panama City -- lovely city, but the pedestrian infrastructure can be a challenge.
Everything you've mentioned here is something people who don't use mobility aids now might want to keep in mind when they're deciding where they'd like to retire, as well, because a lot of us will develop mobility issues, temporary or permanent, at some point in our later years.
Those unmarked holes are terrifying - whether you're navigating on foot or with a mobility device. I've heard of travelers / expats tripping and twisting ankles on uneven transitions, missing pavers, etc. TBH given the condition in popular and well-populated areas of the city, like El Cangrejo, I'm surprised more people don't get seriously hurt.
You're so right about the aging / retirement angle. Most people pick a place based on weather and cost, but never think "what if I need a walker in 10 years?" Panama City looks great until you imagine navigating it with any kind of mobility challenge. We all think we'll be the exception, but aging happens to pretty much everyone (if we are lucky!). Thanks for bringing that up - it's such an important point that people in midlife don't consider enough.
Instruction on using walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility assistance devices is needed. As a nurse, I have had to educate numerous people on safety and the proper use of equipment
Oh gosh, yes. I've observed some egregious misuse of mobility assistance devices over the years. Same for vehicle restraints - carseats and such. If folks seem receptive, I might offer some gentle "assistance" ... but you know how that oft goes!
This is such a detailed and useful post. I remember seeing occasional unmarked open holes in the sidewalk in El Cangrejo when I visited Panama City -- lovely city, but the pedestrian infrastructure can be a challenge.
Everything you've mentioned here is something people who don't use mobility aids now might want to keep in mind when they're deciding where they'd like to retire, as well, because a lot of us will develop mobility issues, temporary or permanent, at some point in our later years.
Those unmarked holes are terrifying - whether you're navigating on foot or with a mobility device. I've heard of travelers / expats tripping and twisting ankles on uneven transitions, missing pavers, etc. TBH given the condition in popular and well-populated areas of the city, like El Cangrejo, I'm surprised more people don't get seriously hurt.
You're so right about the aging / retirement angle. Most people pick a place based on weather and cost, but never think "what if I need a walker in 10 years?" Panama City looks great until you imagine navigating it with any kind of mobility challenge. We all think we'll be the exception, but aging happens to pretty much everyone (if we are lucky!). Thanks for bringing that up - it's such an important point that people in midlife don't consider enough.
Thank you Casey!
Makini