Understanding the Urgency
An elderly person falling is more than just a stumble; it’s a significant medical emergency. While it might seem minor, falls can lead to serious injuries such as fractures (especially hips), head trauma, internal bleeding, or prolonged immobility leading to hypothermia or dehydration if the person cannot get up. Rapid and appropriate action in the initial moments can prevent further injury and significantly impact recovery.
For the Witness / Caregiver: Immediate Actions After a Fall
If you witness an elderly person fall, or find them on the floor, your immediate response is critical. Remain calm and follow these steps.
First Priority: Assess the Situation – Do NOT Rush to Move Them!
- Stay Calm and Reassure Them: Speak gently to the person to calm them down and let them know you are there to help.
- Assess Their Condition:
- Are they conscious?
- Are they responsive? Can they answer questions?
- Are they in pain? Ask where it hurts.
- Can they move any part of their body? Ask them to wiggle their toes or fingers.
- Are there any visible injuries? Look for bleeding, swelling, or unusual limb positions.
- Look for DANGER: Is there any immediate danger around them (e.g., broken glass, water, electrical hazards)? If so, secure the area.
Immediate Action (If you suspect serious injury or they cannot get up):
- Do NOT Attempt to Move Them (Unless in Immediate Danger): This is the most crucial step. Moving someone with a potential fracture or head injury can cause much more harm.
- Call Veer Emergency Care IMMEDIATELY: Open the Veer Emergency Care app or call our emergency line. Our trained paramedics and dispatchers can provide real-time guidance on what to do next, assess the situation, and dispatch a first responder to your location in Bengaluru. Be ready to describe the fall and the person’s current condition.
- Keep Them Warm and Comfortable:
- If they are on a cold surface, place a blanket or towel underneath them, if possible, without moving them too much.
- Cover them with a light blanket to prevent chilling.
- Monitor Them Closely:
- Stay with the person and continue to talk to them.
- Watch for changes in their consciousness, breathing, or level of pain.
- Gather Information: Be prepared to tell emergency services about:
- How the fall happened.
- Any pre-existing medical conditions (like osteoporosis, blood thinners).
- Medications they are taking.
- When they were last seen well.
When is it OK to Help Them Up (Only if NO suspected injury and they are responsive):
Only attempt this if you are ABSOLUTELY certain there are no injuries (no pain, no visible trauma) and the person is fully coherent and able to assist.
- Provide Support, Do Not Lift: If they are able to help themselves, offer a sturdy chair or furniture to brace against.
- Guide Them Slowly: Guide them to roll onto their side, then push up onto their hands and knees, and then slowly move towards a chair or sturdy object to help them stand.
- Always Use Proper Lifting Techniques: If you must assist significantly, bend your knees, keep your back straight, and use your leg muscles.
- Monitor After Getting Up: Even if they seem fine, monitor them closely for the next few hours for any delayed pain, dizziness, or confusion.
- Consult a Doctor: It’s always advisable to consult a doctor after a fall in an elderly person, even if they appear uninjured, to rule out any internal or subtle issues.
Remember: For any elderly fall, especially if there’s pain, confusion, or inability to move, always prioritize professional medical assessment. Veer Emergency Care is here to provide critical pre-ambulance guidance and assistance in Bangalore during these emergencies.
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