After the fall: What to do next

Falls can happen to anyone, regardless of age or physical ability. However, as we age, falls become more common and can lead to serious injuries, hospitalization, and even death.

In Australia, falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations for people aged 65 and over. This article will discuss what to do after a fall to ensure you receive the best care and prevent future falls.

These are the immediate action you can take after a fall.

• If you start to feel dizzy or confused, develop an intense headache, have nausea and/or vomit, get blurry vision, limb weakness, neck stiffness, or fatigue after the fall, you should seek urgent medical help immediately.

• Write down the details of the incident and tell your GP or health professional about the fall as soon as possible, even if you are not hurt. They can help to look at possible causes and treatment options. This is particularly important if you are on blood thinners. Health professionals like Physiotherapists can work with you to prevent future falls so you can maintain your independence and confidence.
• Inform your close contacts about the incident. This will ensure that they can be more attentive to changes in your physical and mental health, as injuries may not show up straight away.

Falls are a common and preventable problem for older adults in Australia. Knowing what to do after a fall, seeking medical help immediately, and working with health professionals to prevent future falls can reduce your risk of injury and maintain your independence and confidence.

If you or a loved one has experienced a fall, taking action is important to prevent future incidents. At Southern Cross Care Health & Wellness Centres, our team of healthcare professionals can work with you to develop a personalized plan to reduce your risk of falls and maintain your independence.

Southern Cross Care has services tailored to those aged 50+ at all of our Health & Wellness Centres.

➜ The Pines Health & Wellness Centre | SA

➜ The Philip Kennedy Centre Health & Wellness Centre | SA

➜ Carmelite Health & Wellness Centre | SA

➜ Goolwa Community Hub | SA

➜ Oakfield Rise Health & Wellness Centre | SA

➜ Darwin Community Hub | NT

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards better health and wellness.