A phone call that starts with “Mom fell” is one of the scariest a family can get. Even when there’s no serious injury, a fall is an important warning sign. Knowing what to do after an elderly parent falls, both in the moment and in the weeks after, can protect their health and help prevent the next one.
Quick answer: After an elderly parent falls, stay calm, check for injuries before helping them up, and call 911 if they hit their head, can’t get up, are in severe pain, or seem confused. Afterward, tell their doctor, look for the cause, address fear of falling, and make changes that reduce the risk of another fall.
In the Moment: What to Do Right Away
Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Don’t rush to pull your parent up. Ask how they feel and whether anything hurts. Look for bleeding, swelling, or a limb at an odd angle.
Call 911 If:
- They hit their head, especially if they take blood thinners
- They’re unconscious, confused, or acting differently
- They have severe pain, especially in the hip, back, or neck
- They can’t move a limb or bear weight
- They have chest pain, trouble breathing, or signs of stroke
- They can’t get up safely
Helping Someone Up Safely
If there’s no serious injury and they feel able, guide them to roll onto their side, get onto hands and knees, crawl to a sturdy chair, and slowly rise with support. Don’t lift them yourself, which risks injuring you both. If they can’t get up, keep them warm and comfortable until help arrives.
If Your Parent Lives Alone
A long time on the floor can cause serious complications. A medical alert device with fall detection helps. See medical alert systems for seniors.
In the Days After a Fall
Tell the Doctor
Even if your parent seems fine, call the doctor. Some injuries appear later, and the fall may point to an underlying problem like a medication side effect, low blood pressure, an infection, dehydration, or a vision change.
Watch for Delayed Symptoms
Headache, drowsiness, confusion, new pain, or bruising that spreads should be checked promptly, especially after a head injury.
Find the Cause
Ask your parent what happened. Did they trip, feel dizzy, or lose their balance? Were they rushing to the bathroom? Understanding the cause helps prevent the next fall.
What to Do After an Elderly Parent Falls: Long-Term Steps
Address Fear of Falling
Many seniors become afraid to move after a fall, which weakens muscles and actually increases risk. Encourage safe activity with support nearby, and talk about their feelings.
Build Strength and Balance
Physical therapy or gentle exercise can restore confidence and stability. See gentle exercises for seniors at home.
Make the Home Safer
Clear walkways, improve lighting, and add grab bars and railings. Our room-by-room fall prevention plan walks you through it.
Review Medications
Ask the doctor or pharmacist to check for medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Add Support for High-Risk Times
Bathing, nighttime bathroom trips, and household chores are common times for falls. In-home help during these times can lower risk significantly. For the bigger picture, see our aging in place guide.
Talking With Your Parent
Many seniors hide falls because they fear losing independence. Approach the conversation with care: “I want to help you stay in your home safely. What would make things easier?”
Frequently Asked Questions
Should an elderly person go to the hospital after a fall?
Seek emergency care for head injuries, severe pain, inability to bear weight, confusion, or other serious symptoms. Otherwise, contact the doctor promptly for guidance.
Why do seniors fall more often after a first fall?
Fear of falling can lead to less activity and weaker muscles, and the underlying cause of the first fall may still be present. Addressing both lowers risk.
How Briggs Home Care Can Help
Briggs Home Care helps seniors recover confidence after a fall, with help during bathing, mobility support, safe routines, and companionship. Learn about our personal care, find a location near you, or call 1-833-960-CARE (2273).
This article is general information, not medical advice.
Related Reading
- Start here: Aging in Place: How to Stay Safe and Independent at Home
- Fall Prevention for Seniors: A Room-by-Room Plan
- Emergency Preparedness for Seniors Living at Home
Trusted outside resource: National Council on Aging
