How Long Does it Take for an Elderly Person to Recover from a Fall?
Falls can be particularly dangerous for the elderly, as they are more likely to suffer from fractures and other serious injuries that might take longer to heal. It’s important to understand how long it takes for an elderly person to recover from a fall so that you can be aware of any potential risks and take appropriate precautions. Let’s explore this topic in more detail.
How Falls Affect the Elderly
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among adults aged 65 and over. This is because older people have weaker bones, making them more prone to fractures such as hip fractures, which can extend recovery time significantly. Additionally, falls can lead to traumatic brain injuries, which can also require a lengthy period of rehabilitation.
Recovery Time
The exact length of time needed for an elderly person to recover from a fall depends on the severity of the injury. Generally speaking, most recoveries last anywhere between 4-6 weeks if there are no complications or secondary injuries. However, in some cases—especially if the individual has suffered a broken bone or traumatic brain injury—the process could take up to several months or even years before they return back to their normal activity level prior to the fall incident.
Preventing Falls
In order to reduce the risk of falls among the elderly population, it is important that seniors take steps such as acquiring mobile stairlifts, avoiding hazardous areas such as slippery floors or cluttered walkways, and using any other mobility equipment that can help them move through their day comfortably and safely. Additionally, regular physical activity can help improve strength and balance in older individuals, reducing their risk of falling.
What to Do After a Fall
If an elderly person has already suffered a fall, do not move them unless there is immediate danger of further injury if they are left where they fell. Look for bruises, bleeding or broken bones, if any of these are noticed it is important that they receive immediate medical attention—this means going to the hospital or calling 911 if necessary. It’s also important that seniors follow all doctor’s orders and rest as much as possible to facilitate their recovery. Family members should be ready to provide support for the individual throughout the entire recovery process.
For falls that are non-life threatening, it is recommended to have an after-fall device to help the person get back up.
Why use the HelpUp?
The HelpUp Patient Lift with Airlift Technology was designed to provide a safe and comfortable solution to help lift loved ones off the floor after a fall. This innovative patient floor lift is quickly positioned under the patient and inflated to properly lift them back up to a standing position; all while keeping them secure and stable. This is a great tool to have on hand in case of emergency falls and can make recovery time significantly faster, allowing the elderly person to quickly get back on their feet and resume normal activity.
Having a mobile stairlift chair is one way that seniors can reduce their risk of falling by providing them with easier access up and down stairs without having to exert too much effort or risking slipping on wet surfaces or tripping over items left lying around on stairs. When combined with physical activity and proper caution when walking around hazardous areas, these measures can go a long way toward helping seniors stay safe and healthy throughout their golden years!
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