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Saturday, August 04, 2018

Alzheimer’s and Fall Risks: Ways to Prevent Fall Injuries

About 1 in every 4 seniors falls at least once a year, and that’s even more common for people who have Alzheimer’s disease. The main thing to watch for is any sign that your loved one’s condition is worse after a fall.
If they’re knocked out (unconscious), stay calm. Most people wake up in less than a minute. Don’t try to move them until you know it’s safe. Call 911 so they can be checked by a professional.
You also should get medical help right away if they:
  • Can't stay awake
  • Can't move a part of their body
  • Have new weakness anywhere in their body
  • Can't stand or walk normally (and could before)
  • Have a seizure before, during, or after the fall
  • Have bleeding you can't stop
  • Look like they might have broken a bone
  • Are suddenly short of breath
  • Have a serious headache
  • Vomit more than once in the 24 hours after the fall
  • Have neck pain
  • Have pain in their belly or chest
  • Have a fever
If you’re worried about a serious injury, such as a broken bone or a head or neck injury, don't move them.

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