Falls

This is in addition to any specific advice given to you by the ambulance crew you saw today

Falls can also sometimes occur as a result of health reasons.

Some common health reasons linked to falling include

• loss of balance due to disability, or muscle weakness
• a sudden episode of dizziness or vertigo
• a sudden, brief loss of consciousness, due to an underlying health condition, such as a heart condition, low blood sugar or low blood pressure (hypotension)
• visual impairment
• increasing need or urges to pass urine or infections.

General advice

Making small changes in and around your home can make a big difference in reducing accidents.

Some general advice for preventing falls include

• mop up spills straight away
• remove clutter, trailing wires and frayed carpet
• use non-slip mats and rugs
• use high wattage bulbs in lights and torches so that you can see clearly
• organise your home so that climbing, stretching and bending are kept to a minimum and so that you do not bump into things
• get help to do things that you cannot do safely
• do not walk on slippery floors in socks or tights
• avoid wearing loose-fitting, trailing clothes that might trip you up.

Speak with your GP to have your medication reviewed if this has not been done recently

• Get you eyesight checked as this might be a cause.

What to do if you fall 

If you have a fall, you should try not to panic. After a fall, it is likely that you will feel shocked and a little bit shaken, but staying calm will help you to gather your thoughts and remember what you need to do. When you are calm, you should ask yourself whether you feel that you are able to get up again. 

If you are not hurt and you feel strong enough to get up, follow the steps listed below

• Do not get up quickly - roll onto your hands and knees and look for a stable piece of furniture, such as a chair, or bed.
• Crawl over to the piece of furniture and, if possible, put something soft under your knees.
• Hold onto the furniture with both hands to support yourself.
• Place one foot flat on the floor, with your knee bent in front of your body.
• When you feel ready, put your other foot flat on the floor and slowly get up.
• Sit down and rest for a while before carrying on with your daily activities.

If you feel hurt, and/or you are unable to get up, follow the steps listed below

• Try to get someone's attention by calling out for help, banging on the wall, or floor (if there is someone on the floor below you), or using your aid call button (if you have one). If possible, crawl to a telephone and dial 999 to request an ambulance.
• While you are waiting for help to arrive, get as comfortable and warm as you can by moving to a carpeted area, and try to reach something warm to put over you (particularly your legs and feet), such as a blanket, or dressing gown.
• Try to move regularly in order to avoid getting pressure sores, and to help you keep comfortable. You should change your position at least every half an hour or so.

Further information can be found at Falls | Prevention | NHS

Patient advice leaflet - Reviewed June 2023