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Two quick suggestions I've heard from patients over the years: 1) Walk down the ramp in a more side-way type walk instead of going straight down. The gentleman who told me this many years ago was a down-hill skier who developed PD. He knew that he was in better control "walking" down a slope or incline on skies in a crab-like, side-way method and tried it on ramps as his PD symptoms advanced. He said it worked for him. 2) Have someone walk in front of your dad as he walks down a ramp or incline. He can put his hand on the person's shoulder for stability. This provides more support (and reassurance) than walking side-by-side or behind your dad. Jeanne Lee-Rosner PDF-Chicago ----- Original Message ----- From: Bonnie Rowley <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Monday, December 13, 1999 12:13 PM Subject: Ramps > Hi all, > > Does anyone have any suggestion on how to ease my dad's fear of going down > ramps? While I was out with my folks yesterday, dad wanted to cut across the > path of grass & lean onto the car & walk his way around it rather than go > down the "handicap access" ramp, which was right in front of the car. Another > time, he didn't want to go near the curb as he was "fearing" the yellow curb > was a drop-off. > > About 6 weeks ago, a walker (the kind w/big wheels, hand brakes & a "seat") > was supposedly ordered thru the VA. He was told originally that it would > arrive in 7-10 days but it still has not yet. In fact, as I understand it, it > was actually only ordered 1 week ago. I'm wondering if his fears will lesson > any once he has use of this walker. > > Thanks > > Bonnie > daughter of Jim 77/72 > * * * > Live well * Laugh often * Love much > Join SPARKLE >