Fall Recovery Strategies with Coach Amy

Amy Morris, a physical therapist, shares essential steps to safely recover from a fall when alone.

Introduction to Fall Recovery

  • Falls are a common risk for individuals with neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease.
  • Consulting a skilled physical therapist is essential to address balance issues and prevent falls.
  • Physical and occupational therapists can provide home safety assessments to improve your environment.
  • Invest in Emergency Alert Systems
    • Devices such as smartwatches, smartphones, or smart home devices can detect falls and call for help.
    • Voice-command features allow you to contact emergency services or loved ones hands-free.
    • Essential for individuals who live alone or spend long periods without a caregiver.
  • What to Do After a Fall
    1. Stay Calm
      • Avoid rushing to get up to prevent a second fall.
      • Assess yourself for injuries before attempting to move.
    2. If Able to Get Up
      • Crawl to a sturdy surface, like a chair.
      • Bring your stronger leg up, place hands on the chair, and push through your feet and hands.
      • Swing your hips into the chair without standing fully upright.
    3. If Unable to Get Up
      • Use an emergency alert device to call for help.
      • If no device is available, crawl to a door or window and shout for assistance.
      • Position yourself comfortably until help arrives.
  • When to Call a Doctor
    • Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
      • Significant pain or immobility.
      • Symptoms of a head injury, such as dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, or confusion.
  • Demonstration of Floor Recovery
    • Step 1: Get to your hands and knees.
    • Step 2: Crawl to a sturdy surface or chair.
    • Step 3: Place hands on the chair and bring one leg up (preferably the stronger one).
    • Step 4: Push through your hands and feet to lift slightly and swing your hip onto the chair.
    • Step 5: Check for any injuries once seated.
  • Key takeaways

    • Staying calm and assessing injuries is crucial after a fall.
    • Emergency alert systems are vital for those at risk of falling while alone.
    • Learning proper floor recovery techniques can prevent further injuries and promote independence.

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