Tips for helping your elderly parent after a fall resulting in injuries

When we were children, our parents always were the first ones to pick us up after a fall. They would clean up our cuts, wrap up our injuries and hold us while we cried. But as our parents get older, it becomes our turn to support them at their most challenging moments.

One of the hardest moments for most older parents is after a fall. It could leave them in a vulnerable position with both physical and emotional injuries. Luckily, there are ways you can help your parents recover and move forward.

IMPORTANT: If the fall was due to neglect at a nursing home or other care facility, make sure to hold the facility accountable. Doing so will help prevent any future incidents and help your parents recover medical costs.

Discuss the fall with a doctor

Some slips are more severe than others, but you should always tell your parent’s physician if your parent suffered from a fall. The doctor may be able to identify what caused the fall or how to avoid any slips in the future. No matter what your parent says, do not keep the fall a secret. Otherwise, it could have long-term effects on their health.

Address the cause of the fall

When you find out the cause of the fall, take some time to address the cause and see how it can be avoided in the future. If the fall happened at your home or your parents’ home, you might need to see if any tripping hazards could lead to another incident. If the fall happened at a nursing home, you should report the fall to the staff at the facility. Remember, some nursing homes will be more responsive and proactive than others.

Have a conversation about the psychological effects

After addressing the physical aspects of a fall, ask your parents how they feel after the incident. Some people experience a huge blow to their ego because it makes them realize their age. Some adults may feel insecure in their bodies and fear how they will recover in the future. The psychological effects of a fall will vary from person to person, but make sure you support your parents and let them know you are there for them.