Falling can be a scary experience. It’s important to know what to do if you have a fall so that you can help yourself as best you can.
Things to remember if you have a fall
- Try to stay calm enough to assess your situation.
- Check yourself for injuries, such as cuts, bruises, and sprains.
- If you feel dizzy or weak, stay down until you feel better.
- If you have a personal medical alarm with you, use it to get help.
- Decide if it’s safe with your strength and surroundings to try and get up.
If you can get up
- Use something sturdy, such as a chair or table, to support yourself.
- Rest for a while and drink some water. Don’t eat anything or drink more than water if you have a head injury or feel nauseous.
If you can’t get up
- Try to get to the phone or call out in a loud voice to attract attention.
- Try to crawl to a place where someone can see or hear you.
- Make yourself as comfortable as possible until help arrives. Cover yourself with something that can keep you warm if it’s available.
- Move your arms and legs gently if you can, to help with blood circulation.
If you have any symptoms that worry you, call 111 immediately. Remember to tell your doctor about the fall, even if you were not injured. Make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible if you think you may have a concussion.
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