Hi there I have used a hiking stick for years they are cheap light and help a lot.No one seems to notice ...I call it a stagger stick that gets a laugh.I have fallen hard and thats not fun..The last hard fall I had was in the house I broke three teeth..I don't go anywhere without it.A fall can seem minor at the time but the damage can be severe..So protect yourself it isn't as bad as you think.A stick can really get people to behave if they make a silly comment...Have some fun and get respect at the same time.Take care!