Mother Refuses to Acknowledge Risk of Falling

Daughter worries about parents' safety after multiple falls

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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A woman who moved across the country to be closer to her aging parents is concerned about her mother's recent falls, some of which may be related to drinking. She has tried to get her parents to use a walker, but they refuse to listen. The daughter fears her mother's next fall could result in serious injury or worse.

Why it matters

Falls can be extremely dangerous for older adults, leading to broken bones, hospitalization, and even death. The daughter's concerns about her parents' safety and denial of the risks are common challenges faced by many people caring for aging loved ones.

The details

The daughter says her 80-year-old mother has had a few falls, including one that required an ambulance trip to the ER because she couldn't stand. The daughter suspects some of the falls are due to her mother having a drink or two at a casino, which affects her balance. The daughter bought her mother a walker and shower chair, but the parents refuse to use them, insisting the mother doesn't need them. The daughter is worried the mother's next fall could result in broken bones or worse.

  • The daughter moved across the country nine years ago to be closer to her aging parents.
  • The mother has had a few falls in the past year.

The players

Daughter

A woman who moved across the country to be closer to her aging parents as they get older.

Mother

The daughter's 80-year-old mother, who has had multiple falls, some potentially related to drinking.

Father

The daughter's father, who is also in his 80s and refuses to acknowledge the need for a walker.

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What they’re saying

“I have been saying for almost a year that my mother needs a walker. Because it has fallen on deaf ears, I took it upon myself to buy her a walker and shower chair. She and Dad are still convinced she doesn't need a walker.”

— Daughter (yourokmulgee.com)

“Assuming they are both in their right minds, tell your father that with the history of falls your mother has, the result of the next one could be serious. Neither of them is a spring chicken. If either one, particularly your mother, were to break a hip and be bedridden, it could lead to pneumonia and death.”

— Abby, Advice Columnist (yourokmulgee.com)

What’s next

The daughter should continue to have open and honest conversations with her parents about the risks of falling, and enlist the help of their doctor to emphasize the importance of using a walker to maintain their safety.

The takeaway

This story highlights the challenges many families face when caring for aging loved ones who are in denial about their need for assistance. Communication, patience, and involving medical professionals can be key to helping older adults accept the tools and support they need to stay safe.