Yes, it does stink, but I make a point of falling with style.
My first line of defense at the beginning was choosing the right footwear. Fitted shoes with a slightly turned-up toe make a huge difference.
I also use a Foot-Flexr which is designed for runner training but gives a little added "pull" to keep me from tripping over a dropped crumb.
I do have a cane, and I don't give a rip what people think of it. I need a 4-wheeled walker nowadays, and again, if someone has a judgement prepared for me over that, then let them wrestle with their own demons.
I need my scooter for anything more than 75 feet, do I look pitiful or weak, or like less of a person to you? It's not vanity for me, it's denial. Once I got over each stage of it, I got to using the tools I need to keep doing the things I want to do. I'm not embarrassed to wear my eyeglasses or use my toothbrush either.