Immediate Actions After a Fall
If you have fallen and can't get up, your first and most important job is to stay calm and assess your situation. Panic can lead to rash decisions that cause further injury. Take a few deep breaths and remain still for a moment to get over the initial shock.
Assess for Injuries
While remaining still, slowly check your body for any pain, bleeding, or other injuries. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I feel any sharp or severe pain, particularly in my head, neck, or back?
- Am I bleeding heavily?
- Do I have any visibly broken bones or deformities?
- Do I feel dizzy or confused?
Your answers will determine your next course of action. If you have any signs of serious injury, do not attempt to move.
When to Call 911
Dial 911 immediately if you experience or observe any of the following during or after a fall:
- Serious Injury: This includes a suspected head injury, profuse bleeding, or a potentially broken bone, such as a hip fracture.
- Inability to Move: If you cannot shift yourself into a more comfortable position without extreme pain, it's best to wait for trained medical professionals.
- Loss of Consciousness: If you are helping someone who fell and they lost consciousness, call 911 right away.
- Alone for an Extended Period: If you fell and have been on the floor for a long time, there is a risk of dehydration and other complications.
Using a Medical Alert System
A personal emergency response system (PERS) is an excellent tool for those living alone or prone to falls. These systems typically involve a wearable device with a button that connects to a 24/7 monitoring center. Many modern devices, including some smartwatches, also feature automatic fall detection. A monitoring agent can assess your needs and dispatch emergency services or contact a family member.
Calling a Non-Emergency "Lift Assist"
If you are certain you are uninjured but simply cannot get up on your own, calling your local non-emergency fire department or a designated “lift assist” line may be an option. Firefighters and EMTs can often be dispatched to help you get off the floor without a full emergency response, as they have the training to do so safely.
Communicating with Family or Neighbors
If you carry a cordless phone or have your cell phone within reach, your first call might be to a trusted family member or neighbor. You can ask them to come help you get up or to call emergency services on your behalf. Having a designated daily check-in with someone is also a proactive safety measure.
How to Get Up Safely (If Uninjured)
If you have assessed yourself and are confident you are not seriously injured, you can follow these steps to get up safely, based on guidance from AARP and others:
- Roll onto your side: Slowly roll over from your stomach or back onto your side.
- Push up to your hands and knees: Push up using your arms to a crawling position. If your knees hurt, you can try scooting on your bottom.
- Crawl to a sturdy chair: Slowly crawl toward a sturdy piece of furniture, like a dining chair or a couch.
- Use the furniture for support: Put both hands on the seat of the chair. Put your strongest leg forward with your foot flat on the floor, while keeping the other knee on the ground.
- Lift and pivot: Push off with your arms and strong leg, and pivot your body to sit down in the chair.
- Rest before moving: Sit for a few minutes to regain your balance and composure before attempting to walk.
Comparison of Communication Methods After a Fall
| Method | When to Use | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Call 911 | Suspected serious injury (head, neck, back), heavy bleeding, inability to move, unconsciousness. | This is for medical emergencies. The response is rapid but may not be necessary for minor falls. |
| Medical Alert System (PERS) | Conscious and able to press a button, or using an auto-detect system. | Best for immediate connection to trained operators. Requires a subscription and device. |
| "Lift Assist" (Non-Emergency) | No serious injury, but unable to get up unassisted. | Allows for trained assistance without a full emergency call. Check local availability. |
| Call a Family Member/Neighbor | Able to reach a phone and are confident you do not need immediate medical attention. | Quick and personalized help from a trusted individual. Can be slower than a professional service. |
| Shout for Help | If a phone isn't accessible and others are nearby. | Simplest method if others are within earshot. Effectiveness depends on proximity and hearing ability. |
Strategies for Fall Prevention
Preventing a fall is always the best course of action. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your risk:
- Home Safety Modifications: Remove clutter, secure rugs with double-sided tape, and install grab bars in the bathroom. Ensure good lighting throughout your home, especially on stairs and in hallways.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in strength and balance exercises, like Tai Chi or seated leg lifts, to improve stability and strengthen muscles.
- Medication Review: Speak with your doctor or pharmacist annually to review all medications, as some can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
- Vision and Hearing Checks: Schedule regular check-ups with your eye doctor, as poor vision increases fall risk. Also, address any hearing loss, which can affect balance.
- Proper Footwear: Wear supportive, low-heeled shoes with non-slip soles, even when indoors.
Conclusion: Your Proactive Safety Net
Falling is a serious concern for older adults, but being prepared can help you navigate the situation safely. The most important step is to stay calm and assess your condition before acting. Knowing when to call 911 for a serious injury versus utilizing a medical alert system or a “lift assist” line for non-emergencies is key. Proactive prevention, including home modifications and regular exercise, is the most effective way to reduce the risk of falling in the first place. With a solid plan in place, you can maintain your independence and feel more secure in your daily life.
