One of the most common risks for older adults is falling. Regardless of whether this happens at home or in a care facility, it is vital to know how to respond.
Remain calm and don’t rush
Your first instinct upon seeing a fall is naturally to help the person back up, but this could potentially cause more harm than good. Your first response should be to check for signs of injury, especially to the head, hips, or limbs.
If the person is conscious, ask them whether they are in pain whilst you check for swelling or bleeding. Reassure them during this time to keep them calm. If they are unresponsive or seriously hurt, call the emergency services immediately.
Falls may go unnoticed for extended periods if they occur out of earshot. Investing in wireless call buttons can significantly reduce this risk, allowing people who fall to call for help when they would otherwise be unable to do so.
Available from companies such as https://www.dinggly.com/us/products/wireless-call-buttons, call buttons can also prevent patients from leaving their beds to seek help, which is a leading cause of falls.
Help them up safely
If there are no signs of serious injury and the person feels capable, help them back up using something sturdy, such as a chair, to assist them.
Ensure you monitor them closely and encourage them to rest and hydrate or seek a medical check-up if you are still uncertain.
Falls can be frightening; however, with the right tools and mindset, they can be managed effectively and keep loved ones safe.
