Immediate Actions: Assess the Situation Safely
When you discover an elderly person has fallen, your first priority is to stay calm. Your composed demeanor will help keep them from panicking. Before you attempt any movement, a careful assessment of the situation and the individual's condition is critical. If they are unconscious, bleeding severely, or complain of severe pain, especially in the head, neck, or back, do not move them. Call emergency services (911 or your local equivalent) immediately. Provide comfort and keep them warm with a blanket or jacket while you wait for help to arrive. If the person is conscious and not in severe pain, you can proceed with the following steps, but only if they are able and willing to cooperate.
The Step-by-Step Chair Method (No Major Injuries Suspected)
This method is safe and utilizes the senior’s own strength, with your assistance, to help them to a sitting position. It is critical that you do not attempt to lift them on your own, as this can cause injury to both of you.
Step 1: Prepare the Area and Position
- Find a Sturdy Chair: Locate a strong, stable chair that will not tip. Place it at the head of the fallen person, with the chair back facing away.
- Guide to Position: Instruct the person to slowly roll onto their side. This is a key first step to get them from a flat position to a more mobile one.
- Assist to Hands and Knees: Next, help them push up onto their hands and knees. If their knees are sensitive, place a blanket or towel underneath them for comfort.
Step 2: Use the Chair for Leverage
- Crawl to the Chair: Guide them to crawl towards the chair, positioning themselves so their hands can reach the seat for support.
- Assume a Kneeling Lunge: Instruct them to place their strongest foot flat on the floor, pushing off with their arms on the chair seat to get into a kneeling lunge position.
- Stand and Pivot: As they push up with their arms and strongest leg, position yourself nearby to provide steady support. Once they are standing, guide them to pivot slowly and sit down on the chair.
Comparison of Fall Recovery Methods
| Method | Best For | Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Chair Method | Individuals without severe injuries who can bear some weight. | Strain on caregiver if done incorrectly; re-injury if underlying condition exists. |
| Professional Lift Assist | Any injury suspected; person is too heavy to manage safely; a second fall seems likely. | Delays in waiting for emergency services to arrive. |
| Manual Carry/Lift | Very rare; only for trained professionals. | High risk of severe injury to both the senior and the lifter. |
When to Always Call for Professional Help
Even if there is no obvious injury, some signs demand professional medical attention. Call for help if the fallen person:
- Lost consciousness at any point during or after the fall.
- Has a possible head injury (e.g., confusion, dizziness, headache).
- Cannot bear weight on a leg or limb.
- Is taking blood thinners, which increases the risk of serious internal bleeding.
- Was moved to a chair but is still dizzy, weak, or unwell.
Consider utilizing a non-emergency “lift assist” service if the person is uninjured but too heavy for you to help. First responders can help without requiring a trip to the hospital. For more guidance on safe lifting techniques and fall prevention, consider resources from the National Institute on Aging.
Post-Fall Recovery and Prevention
After a fall, it is crucial to schedule a doctor's visit, even if the person seems fine. Some injuries, like a hairline fracture, may not be immediately apparent. A doctor can also help identify the root cause of the fall, which may be related to medication, vision problems, or balance issues. This information is vital for preventing future incidents. Taking proactive steps to improve home safety is also essential:
- Remove trip hazards like loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter.
- Improve lighting in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms.
- Install grab bars in bathrooms and stairways.
- Ensure handrails are secure and present on both sides of staircases.
- Consider motion-activated nightlights to illuminate pathways.
Conclusion
Learning how to get an elderly person up that has fallen is a critical skill for any caregiver. The key is prioritizing safety by first assessing for injuries and calling emergency services when necessary. If it is safe to proceed, use the assisted chair method, focusing on clear communication and utilizing their strength. By staying calm, using the right technique, and taking proactive prevention steps, you can minimize the risks associated with falls and help your loved one maintain their health and independence.
