How to Help the Elderly Up From a Fall

Falls in the elderly can be a serious problem. Their bones may be injured in a fall or they may get cuts in their skin or hit their head on the floor and pass out. According to the The American Academy of Family Physicians, falls can be a symptom of serious problems, such as a tumor or other severe health-related issues. It is important to be wise when helping an elderly person get up after a fall. Before helping him up, make sure he is okay, and if in doubt, see that he is taken to a hospital or doctor promptly. Always use caution when helping an elderly person get back up.

Things You'll Need

• Chair

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Instructions

• 1

  Ask the fall victim if she is okay. This is to assess if she are conscious. Wait a few moments to let her clear any dazed feelings. Ask her a few simple questions and listen to how she responds. Slurred speech or confusion may indicate a bumped head, a concussion or other serious problems. Call the ambulance immediately if she is unconscious or remains confused or unable to speak clearly.

• 2

  Ask him if he is in any pain. Have him indicate the exact part of the body in pain. Avoid touching these areas if possible to avoid further damage. Call the ambulance immediately if there are any obvious injuries, such as broken bones or serious bleeding. Also call the ambulance if he complains of serious pain without any obvious injury. There may be internal injuries. Never pick up severely injured elderly people without proper training.

• 3

  Help her get to her hands and knees if she is uninjured and not dizzy or confused. Try to encourage her to do it on her own. If she cannot, place your arms carefully around her chest and pull with her. Hold her up in this position if she remains dizzy. Release her when she can support her own weight.

• 4

  Walk him over to a chair or table. Grab his hands and bring him to the chair if necessary. Encourage him to grab the chair on his own. Stand behind him and bend over. Place your arms underneath his arm pits.

• 5

  Tell her to begin standing. Assist her by lifting using her using the method defined in the EMax Health website. Spread your legs shoulder width apart, bend your knees, tighten your stomach muscles and lift with your leg muscles. Get her to a standing position.

• 6

  Hold onto him to make sure he is stable. His knees shouldn't buckle and he shouldn't sway from side to side. Release him but stay close. Let him take a few steps until you are assured he is ready to walk on his own.