What to do if an elderly person falls and can’t get up
Falls are one of the most delicate situations that older people can face. Not only can they cause fractures, blows or internal injuries, but they also generate fear, insecurity and loss of confidence when moving. Knowing how to act in those first few minutes can make the difference between a quick recovery and a serious complication. That’s why it’s critical to know the right steps to help safely and responsibly.
1. Stay calm and assess the situation
The first thing is to stay calm. If the person is conscious, speak in a calm voice and ask them not to try to get up on their own. Ask what they are feeling, if they have pain, dizziness, or if they hit any part of their body, especially their head, hips, or back.
Watch for visible signs of injury, such as bleeding, deformities, swelling, or difficulty moving any limbs. Also pay attention to their breathing and level of consciousness.
2. Not lifting it immediately
One of the most common mistakes is trying to get the person up quickly. If there was a hard fall, there could be a fracture or injury to the spine. Moving it carelessly can worsen the damage.
You should only try to help her get up if:
- Is fully conscious
- No severe pain
- Can move arms and legs
- He didn’t hit his head
If any of these conditions are not met, the safest thing to do is not to move it.
3. Call for medical help when necessary
You should seek immediate medical help if any of these situations occur:
- The person cannot stand up
- Have hip, back, or neck pain
- He hit his head
- Is disoriented or confused
- There is bleeding, vomiting, or loss of consciousness
While help arrives, keep the person warm and calm, without giving them food or drink.
4. If you can get up, help her safely
If the person says they’re feeling fine and there are no signs of serious injury, you can help them carefully:
- Place a firm chair near it.
- Ask your child to slowly turn onto his side.
- Then let it rest on your hands and knees.
- Help her bring one leg forward and lean into the chair.
- From there, sit down and rest for a few minutes before standing up.
Never pull on your arm or lift it tightly.
5. Keep an eye on it during the following hours
Even if the person has gotten up, it is important to observe them for the next 24 hours. Some internal injuries or blows to the head may manifest later.
See a doctor if symptoms such as:
- Increasing pain
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty walking
- Changes in behavior
6. Prevent future falls
After a fall, it’s key to check your environment:
- Remove loose carpets
- Improve lighting
- Wear non-slip footwear
- Place grab bars in bathrooms and hallways
- Make sure the person wears glasses or a cane if needed
Prevention is one of the best ways to protect the health and independence of older adults.
Knowing what to do in the event of a fall not only prevents more serious injuries, it also transmits safety, care and respect for those who need it most. A few minutes of correct attention can completely change the outcome of a critical situation.
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