Emergencies & safety
If someone falls
Most falls are frightening more than they are serious — but a calm, careful response protects them from a small injury becoming a big one. Breathe first. You can do this.
First, do not rush to lift
- Kneel beside them and keep your voice calm and reassuring.
- Ask: “Are you hurt? Can you feel and move your arms and legs?”
- Look for pain at the hip, head, wrist, or back, and for any bleeding or a limb that looks out of place.
- Give it a minute — let the startle pass before anyone moves.
If they seem unhurt and want to get up
- Bring a sturdy chair beside them.
- Help them roll onto their side, then push up onto hands and knees.
- Have them place both hands on the chair seat and lead with the stronger leg into a kneel, then stand and turn to sit.
- Let them rest and sip water. Watch them for the next few hours.
A few tips
- Never lift with your back. If they can’t help, don’t force it — call for a second person or 911 for a lift assist.
- Write down the fall in the daily log: time, where, and how they felt. Patterns help the doctor.
When to get help
- Call 911 now if there is severe pain, a head strike, confusion, they can’t move a limb, or they’re on a blood thinner.
- Do not move them if you suspect a head, neck, or hip injury — keep them still and warm until help arrives.
One careful moment now is a gift to every tomorrow. You’ve got this.
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Join the waitlist — it's free to startCareboundless is a care-coordination and support tool, not a medical provider. This is general information, not medical advice — in an emergency call 911, and always consult a qualified professional for health decisions.