What if I do fall?

Preventing falls is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your independence. However, it is important to know what to do if you have a fall.

Most falls don’t result in serious injury but many people are unable to get up without help. You could make a plan of ways to safeguard yourself if you fall – this may help you feel more confident and in control.

If you do fall, it is important that you are prepared and have practised what to do to get up. This can help prevent injuries and will help reduce anxiety and fear of falling. If it is a long time since you have tried getting down to the floor and back up again, try practising when someone is with you.

A physiotherapist can teach you safe ways to get up from the floor that are easiest for you, especially if you have joint problems. One of the most important things you can do to help is improve your flexibility and strength. A physiotherapist can show you exercises for this.

If you fall

• Read what to do if you fall
• Read how to get up from the floor
• Download chart showing what to do if you fall and images of how to get up from the floor (PDF 207KB)
• Read what to do after a fall

In emergencies

Call 000 and ask for the ambulance.