A timely story. My dearest friend, 80, fell yesterday going down her cellar stairs carrying a large box, not holding the stair rail, and wearing only nylons. She knows nylons are slippery but she was in a hurry to complete her task and did not take the time to slip on her shoes. She fell landing on her back. Fortunately, she didn't break anything but she is in pain.

Like you, I bump or toss things down the stairs ahead of me. I always hold the rail not because I am old (82) or frail but to ensure my inward-turning left foot does not throw me off balance.