Why this skill matters
Being unable to get up after a fall is a serious risk for older adults \u2014 a long time on the floor can lead to further health problems. Learning how to get up safely, and building the strength to do it, is an important part of falls management. This should be practised with a physiotherapist before you need it.
General steps to get up
If you fall and are not injured, the general approach is to move slowly and use furniture for support. A physiotherapist teaches and practises this with you safely.
- Stay calm and check for injury
- Roll onto your side, then onto hands and knees
- Crawl to a sturdy chair or piece of furniture
- Place your hands on the seat and bring one foot forward
- Push up to standing and turn to sit
- Rest before doing anything else
Building the strength and confidence
Getting up from the floor takes strength, coordination and practice. A physiotherapist helps you build these safely and rehearse the technique, so you and your family feel more confident. Home visit physiotherapy is ideal for practising this skill in your own home, where a fall is most likely to happen.