A fall can feel like a devastating blow. A simple accident like tripping on the stairs or slipping on a wet floor can be life changing.
If you or a loved one has fallen, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, falls are a significant concern for older Australians, with 1 in 4 people who are aged 65 and over experiencing at least one fall per year.
In 2024, falls made up the largest share of MePACS alarm activations, accounting for nearly 38 percent of all incidents reported to our Response Centre.
Falls can understandably cause anxiety for seniors, who may worry about potential injury and loss of independence. However, it’s important to remember that there are steps that you can take to reduce your risk of serious injury, to get help quickly if you do fall, and to maintain your safety and independence during your recovery.
What to do if you fall
Whether you are at home or out and about, a sudden fall can be scary and unsettling. If you do fall, try to remain as calm as possible and assess your condition. Rushing to get up or doing so incorrectly may make an injury worse. Pay attention to any sharp pain, dizziness or disorientation, as these may be a sign that you are seriously hurt. Next, take note of any hazards, such as a slippery floor or broken glass before you move.
If you believe that getting up could cause further harm, stay where you are and call for help. If you feel unsure or unsafe in any way, focus on getting help instead of attempting to get up by yourself.
|
Tip: Wearing a monitored personal alarm with falls detection, like the MePACS Mobile Alarm or MePACS Solo Connect personal alarm watch, ensures that help is available 24/7, even if you are on your own. |
If, after assessing your situation, you feel confident that you can get up, it’s important to do so safely to minimise the risk of further injury. This illustrated NSW Government fact sheet offers some step-by-step instructions on how to get up following a fall. Practicing this method may help you gain confidence in getting off the floor.
The dangers of a ‘long lie’
A ‘long lie’ is when someone is unable to get up after falling and remains on the ground for a long time (more than an hour).
Long lies are associated with high mortality rates among older people. Risks of a long lie include dehydration, pneumonia, muscle damage, pressure sores and hypothermia.
|
|
Tip: Personal alarms have been shown to be an effective strategy, when used appropriately, to prevent a long lie after a fall. |
Getting back on your feet
If you, or someone you care, for has experienced a serious fall, go to the nearest emergency department or call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Even if you are not hurt, it’s important to consult with your doctor, as falls may indicate issues like a new condition, medication side effects, balance issues, or muscle weakness. Regular GP visits can help catch potential problems before they escalate into more serious incidents.
Frequent falls and the persistent fear of falling can have a profound impact on your overall wellbeing and quality of life. Sadly, fear of falling may increase the risk of future falls, as it can cause you to limit your daily activities. This, in turn, can result in weakened lower limb strength, further reducing mobility, physical function, and increasing the risk of social isolation.
The process of recovering from a fall, both physically and emotionally, can be challenging but you don’t need to go through it alone. Connecting with your doctor and allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, or exercise physiologists can play a key role in your rehabilitation. These professionals can assess your physical abilities and home environment, offering practical advice and strategies to help reduce the risk of future falls.
Staying safe
If you’re concerned about falling, a personal alarm equipped with hard falls detection can provide an added layer of security, helping to boost both your confidence and independence.
Personal alarms with hard falls detection can identify when a hard fall has occurred and promptly send an alert for help. This is especially important if you are unconscious or unable to move due to injury or illness.
MePACS has three personal alarms that include hard falls detection:
- MePACS Fall Detection Pendant
- MePACS Solo Connect Watch Alarm
- MePACS Mobile Alarm
If these alarms detect a hard fall, they will connect with the 24/7 MePACS emergency response centre. A MePACS Emergency Response Operator will promptly respond to the alert and talk to the user through the alarm. We will then assess the situation and get the right help quickly, which can be critical in preventing further injuries or complications.
Of course, despite all the benefits, falls detection technology is not completely foolproof. That’s why, if you are conscious and able to, we recommend activating the alarm manually.
Additional measures
Along with having a monitored personal alarm, it’s important to let trusted people know how to get into your house if you can’t let them in. A Key Lock is a secure storage box that holds a spare set of keys, allowing emergency responders or loved ones to quickly access your home when needed.
Next steps
Falling can be a frightening experience, but it doesn’t have to limit your independence. By taking proactive steps to reduce your risk of falls, knowing what to do if you fall, and having the right support system in place, you can continue to live life with confidence.
For added peace of mind, consider a personal alarm equipped with hard falls detection. MePACS offers a range of options to suit your needs.
|
Looking for help? Call MePACS today on 1800 685 329 for a friendly, no-obligation consultation. You can also connect with us through live chat or by requesting a call back. |
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health and wellbeing.