Falls

What to do if you fall

If you fall, try to stay calm. Check for any pain or injuries and see if you think you can get up.

If you feel able to get up

If you're not hurt and you feel strong enough:

• take your time – do not get up too quickly
• roll onto your side, then use your arms to push yourself onto your hands and knees
• look for something stable to hold, such as a chair, bed or sink – crawl to it if it’s out of reach
• put one foot flat in the floor and stand up slowly, holding on to something to help you
• sit down and rest while you recover

If you do not feel able to get up

If you’re hurt or unable to get up:

• call for help or bang on a wall or floor for attention
• if you can reach a phone or personal alarm, use it to get help

Call 999 if you or someone else has fallen and:

• may have injured the head, back, neck or hip
• cannot get up

Whilst waiting for help:

• try to keep warm – cover yourself with anything you can reach, such as a towel, dressing gown, rug or blanket
• keep moving your body – roll from side to side, or gently move your arms and legs

Most at risk of falls

Older people

Older people are more likely to fall, especially if they have a long-term health condition, such as:

• conditions that affect mobility or balance, such as arthritis, stroke or Parkinson’s disease
• poor vision or hearing
• heart disease
• dementia
• low blood pressure (hypotension), which can lead to dizziness

Children

Children can also be prone to trips and falls. You should always check for potential risks both at home and when you are out. For advice on how to prevent children injuring themselves by falling, see:

• Guarding children against trips and falls

When to see your GP

If you have had a fall or you, your family or carer think you are at risk of falling, speak to your GP about a falls assessment.

Your GP may carry out some simple tests to check your balance.

They might review any medicines you're taking, in case their side effects may increase your risk of falling.

Your GP may also recommend:

• a sight test if you're having problems with your vision, even if you already wear glasses
• having an electrocardiogram (ECG) and checking your blood pressure while lying and standing
• a healthcare professional visits your home to identify potential hazards and offer advice on how to make your home safer
• exercises to improve your strength and balance

Further information on getting a healthcare assessment is available at:

• Arranging health and social care

Preventing a fall

For further advice on common causes of trips and falls, as well as tips on how to prevent falls, visit:

• How to reduce falls

More useful links

• How to use your health services