At Sunny Days In-Home Care Great Lakes, we want to address a concern that many families face: what to do when an elderly person falls. Falls are shared among the elderly population due to things like decreased balance, muscle weakness, or vision problems. They can also be a frightening experience for both the seniors and their loved ones.
Understanding the appropriate actions to take when an elderly person falls is crucial to ensure their safety and well-being. With the right knowledge and response, however, we can minimize the risk of injury and provide support when it does happen.
Keep reading to learn the best tips for responding promptly when an elderly loved one falls.
1. Address The Situation
When an elderly person falls, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution and to prioritize safety first. Before rushing in to help, check that you are safe from any hazards around the fallen individual. Next, approach the senior gently and assess their condition. First and foremost, determine if they are conscious and responsive. Look for signs of pain, swelling, or visible injuries too. During this assessment, it is extremely important to stay calm and not panic.
2. Call For Medical Assistance If Needed
Based on your assessment of the fall and the elderly person’s overall condition, decide if medical assistance is needed. If they are injured, experiencing severe pain, or have difficulty moving, we recommend calling for an ambulance immediately. In addition to emergency medical services, reach out to your loved one’s primary care physician for guidance on the next steps to take. Never hesitate to seek professional medical help when it comes to ensuring the well-being and safety of your loved one.
3. Provide Immediate Aid And Comfort
It is important to provide immediate aid and comfort to your elderly loved one, where possible. If there are suspected fractures or serious injuries, avoid moving the elderly person and wait for medical professionals to handle the situation. However, if there are no suspected serious injuries, assist the elderly person in moving to a comfortable position. Use pillows to provide support and help alleviate any discomfort. Offer reassurance, emotional support, and comfort by speaking calmly and staying with them.
4. Address Minor Injuries
The next thing you should do when an elderly person falls is to check the individual for any minor injuries, such as cuts or bruises. Treat these by cleaning and bandaging any wounds carefully. If swelling occurs, applying ice packs can help to reduce it.
5. Prevent Future Falls
At Sunny Days In-Home Care Great Lakes, we believe in taking proactive measures to prevent these falls. First, identify potential hazards in the senior’s living space and take steps to address them. Remove any obstacles and clutter to create clear paths to reduce the risk of falls. Encourage the use of canes or walkers to provide additional stability and balance support too. You can also consider installing handrails and non-slip mats in key areas to enhance overall safety.
Overall,
When an elderly person falls, it is so important to stay calm and collected. By prioritizing safety, seeking medical assistance when needed, and providing immediate aid and comfort, we can better handle such situations. At Sunny Days In-Home Care Great Lakes, we understand the challenges that come with caring for aging loved ones, and we are here to offer support and professional in-home care services to ensure their well-being and independence!
If you or your loved ones need assistance with senior care, feel free to reach out to us today. We are dedicated to providing care that allows seniors to age comfortably in the familiar surroundings of their own homes.