STRATEGIES FOR ASSISTING AN ELDERLY PERSON AFTER A FALL: WITH OR WITHOUT SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT

Dealing with a situation where an elderly person has fallen can be distressing. Whether it’s a loved one or someone you care for, it’s crucial to approach the scenario cautiously to avoid causing further harm. This article outlines the immediate steps to take, how to safely assist them from the floor, and when to involve specialist equipment or professional help.

First Steps to Take After a Fall

Before attempting to lift the fallen person, take a moment to assess the situation and ensure there are no apparent signs of injury. This initial evaluation is essential to avoid exacerbating any potential harm. If the person is shocked or agitated, helping them calm down by guiding them to take deep, slow breaths can be beneficial.

For a comprehensive injury assessment, consider using an approved tool such as the one provided by the Department of Health Victoria: https://www.health.vic.gov.au/wellbeingand-participation/falls-prevention-tools

Lifting Without Equipment

In cases where specialised lifting equipment isn’t available, here’s how you can assist the fallen person in getting up:

Using Specialised Equipment

If you have access to specialised lifting equipment, utilise the following video resources to guide you:

Watch this video for a visual demonstration:

What to Do Next

Falls among older individuals are taken very seriously by healthcare professionals due to their potentially severe consequences. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult your local GP for guidance on the next steps.

It’s important to note that if they struggle or experience pain, it’s advisable to call emergency services for assistance.

During the consultation, the GP will likely assess the fallen person’s health and balance. If the person is on medication, the GP will review these medications to determine if any side effects contribute to the risk of falling.

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Additional recommendations could include:

1. EYE TEST: Identifying vision problems through an eye examination.

2. BLOOD PRESSURE CHECK: Assessing blood pressure in various positions.

3. HOME ASSESSMENT: Having a healthcare professional evaluate the living environment for potential hazards and offer advice on fall prevention.