No one plans to fall over but knowing what to do can be very beneficial. This can improve confidence and allow individuals to get on with enjoying life.
If you are at risk of falling it would be helpful to know how to get off the floor and what to do.
Be prepared
If you live alone make regular contact with family/neighbours or friends. A simple way is always pull your living room curtains in the morning, let a friend know if the curtains have not been opened you are in trouble.
Ensure you have a mobile or cordless phone, or one you can reach from the floor. Even better, hire a pendant alarm.
Leave a spare key with someone who is trustworthy or install a key safe. These can be purchased for around £20 and are very easy to install.
What to do if you have a fall
1. Try not to panic, stay still and keep calm.
2. Check if you have any injuries
3. Look for hazards such as sharp or broken objects
4. Decide if it is safe to get up. If you can get up:
a. think about you will get up, can you find something to push up on
b. If you try and fail have a rest, do not panic
5. If you are hurt seek medical attention
If you cannot get up call for help
Whilst waiting for help keep warm and comfortable. If you need to pass urine find something to absorb the fluid to protect the skin.
Change position to off load pressure areas.
What should I do after a fall
Seek urgent medical help if you feel confused, develop a headache, nausea, vomiting, leg weakness or blurry vision. If you are unable to weight bear seek urgent medical assistance. Tell your G.P and Physiotherapist even if you are not hurt. Also tell relatives even if you are worried about what they may think.
At North Devon and Cornwall Physio we can assess for hazards like loose cables, rugs, poor lighting and make recommendations. We can assess strength, balance, movement and function developing exercise programmes. We cover North Devon and Cornwall including Barnstaple, Bideford, Holsworthy, Bude, Launceston, Bodmin, St Austell and the surrounding areas. We come to you assessing an individual in their own environment.
Contact us on:
07769345867
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