If you are an older adult, you've probably already heard about your risk for falling.
You may have even made your home safer.
But knowing what to do if you do fall will help you be prepared in case it happens.
Here's what to do.
If you fall, the most important thing to do is to lie still long enough to see if you're hurt.
Then you'll know if you should try to get up.
If your body feels okay, gently roll onto your side and slowly get up on your hands and knees.
Look around the room for something sturdy... like a chair without wheels.
Carefully crawl to the chair and put your hands on it.
Lean forward and move just one of your feet so it's flat on the floor.
Keep the other leg bent with the knee on the floor.
Now, keeping your hands on the chair, slowly stand, turn your body, and sit in the chair.
It's important that you stay seated for a minute or two to make sure you're okay before you try to stand or walk.
Call out for help or use the phone to let someone know that you've fallen.
If you fall and are hurt or can't get up, try to stay calm.
Call out for help, or use your emergency call device if you have one.
If you don't have one, yell as loudly as you can, or use an object like a cane or broom to make noise and get someone's attention.
Look around for something to cover up with-like a rug, a blanket, or clothing-so you can stay warm.
And if you can, move around a little on the floor to keep from getting stiff until help comes.
No one plans to fall, but practicing how to get up safely may keep you active and independent.
Wait until you have someone with you to practice.
And if you can't get up when you practice, ask your doctor for ideas on how you can plan to get up.