When to call 911
Seek emergency care immediately if:
The individual is unconscious, unable to move, has severe pain, a head injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or new neurological symptoms such as slurred speech, facial drooping, or arm weakness.
If the fall was not associated with acute medical distress and the individual is stable, continue below.
What to assess after a fall
A single fall may represent an isolated event, but repeated falls increase safety risk significantly. Even after a minor fall, a structured review is appropriate.
- Determine whether any injury occurred — including delayed pain
- Review recent medication changes or new prescriptions
- Assess balance, strength, and mobility stability
- Evaluate environmental hazards — stairs, rugs, lighting, bathroom access
- Identify whether supervision was present at the time of the fall
- Notify the primary care provider, even if injuries appear minor
Areas families and providers assess
Medical factors
- Recent health changes or hospitalizations
- Medication interactions or side effects
- Blood pressure changes upon standing
- Vision or hearing changes
Safety & environment
- Assistive device use — walkers, canes
- Transfer safety — bed, toilet, shower
- Home environment modifications
- Supervision coverage gaps
Fall risk often increases gradually and may require structured support planning rather than a single intervention.
Signs that in-home care may help
Short-term or ongoing in-home assistance may help reduce fall risk and stabilize supervision. Support may be appropriate when:
- Mobility assistance is needed for walking, transfers, or stairs
- Supervision gaps exist — particularly overnight or when alone
- Transfers require physical assistance — bed, toilet, shower
- Medication management is complex or requires oversight
- Nighttime safety monitoring is necessary
Steps after a fall at home
Notify the primary care provider
Even if the fall appeared minor, a clinical review of fall risk factors — including medications, blood pressure, and balance — is appropriate.
Review medication and mobility safety
Certain medications significantly increase fall risk. A medication review and mobility assessment may identify correctable contributing factors.
Arrange in-home care for supervision or transfer assistance
Non-medical in-home caregivers can provide supervision during higher-risk periods and assist with transfers while recovery or assessment is underway.
Consider home safety modifications
Grab bars, improved lighting, removal of trip hazards, and bathroom safety equipment can meaningfully reduce future fall risk.
Reassess long-term care planning if falls repeat
Repeated falls may indicate that the current level of supervision or the home environment is no longer adequate. A broader care review may be appropriate.
In-home support providers across Maine
In-home non-medical support and supervision providers are listed by region. Select the region closest to your location.