What to Do if You Fall

What to do when a fall occurs

After a fall , if you are not hurt and able to get up, move or crawl towards the nearest piece of stable furniture and use it for support.

Not all falls are preventable. But knowing what to do when a fall happens can lessen your fear of falling. The Geriatric Centre at Changi General Hospital (CGH), a member of the SingHealth group, advises "if you fall, get up (if you can) or get help as soon as possible". Lying on the floor for long periods can lead to serious complications. This includes:

Dehydration
Hypothermia (a low body temperature that may result in death if not treated)
Lung infection
Skin breakdown and pressure sores
Muscle damage

If you are at risk of falling, learn the strategy for getting up, either on your own or with someone else’s (such as your carer’s) help.

What to do when a fall occurs

If you have fallen, stay calm and do the following:

Move your body, arms and legs to check for pain and injury

If you are in pain and unable to move:

Try to get someone’s attention by calling out or banging on the floor or the wall. If you are able to, move or crawl to a telephone and dial for assistance
Sit or lie down on the floor in a comfortable position until help arrives

If you are not hurt and are able to get up:

Pace yourself and do not get up too quickly
Roll onto your hands and knees, and move or crawl towards the nearest piece of stable furniture, such as a chair or a bed
Hold on to the furniture with both hands to support yourself
Place one foot flat on the floor and bend one knee in front of your body
Use your other foot and your arms to brace yourself
When you feel ready, get up slowly
Sit down and rest until you feel strong enough to call for help. Seek medical help if needed

Ref: O17

Learn the common causes of falls in the elderly and how to prevent them.

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