Falls are the most common cause of emergency hospital admissions for older people – and the speed of response after a fall can dramatically affect the outcome. It’s not just about the injury itself, but how long someone remains on the floor before help arrives. This is often referred to as a ‘long lie’, and it’s more dangerous than many people realise.
According to the NHS, around 1 in 3 adults over 65 will have at least one fall a year. Of those who fall, nearly half are unable to get up without help. Research shows that if a person remains on the floor for over an hour, their risk of serious complications – such as hypothermia, dehydration, pressure sores, and kidney failure – increases significantly.
In fact, studies have found that people who experience a long lie after a fall are five times more likely to die within six months than those who receive prompt help. Even non-life-threatening injuries can lead to a permanent loss of independence when help is delayed.
A reliable pendant alarm can reduce these risks by enabling your loved one to call for help the moment something goes wrong. The quicker help is on the way, the better the chance of a full recovery – and the less likely it is that a short-term incident becomes a long-term setback.
In these situations, every minute matters. Fast alerts save lives, preserve dignity, and give families peace of mind.
Falls in the Home
Falls among older adults often follow predictable patterns that highlight the importance of pendant alarms. Most falls occur at home during routine activities such as getting out of bed, using the bathroom, or moving between rooms. They often happen in poorly lit areas or where there are trip hazards like rugs or steps. Medical issues such as reduced balance, muscle weakness, or medication effects can increase the risk. Falls are more likely at night or early morning when individuals may feel tired or unsteady. Pendant alarms offer immediate access to help, ensuring a fast response and greater safety in these high-risk situations.
Delayed Response
Studies have found that people who experience a long lie after a fall – meaning they remain on the ground for an extended period without assistance – are five times more likely to die within six months than those who receive prompt help. This delay can lead to serious complications such as dehydration, pressure sores, hypothermia, and muscle breakdown, all of which significantly impact recovery. Even when the initial injury isn’t life-threatening, the trauma of being left unattended can result in a loss of confidence, increased anxiety, and reduced mobility. Over time, this often leads to a permanent loss of independence and a need for higher levels of care. Swift assistance, such as that provided through a pendant alarm, can dramatically reduce these risks and support better long-term outcomes.
The Risk of Falls
The NHS reports that roughly one in three people aged 65 and over will fall at least once a year, making falls a major concern for older adults. Alarmingly, almost half of those who fall are unable to get up without assistance, placing them at increased risk. When someone remains on the ground for a prolonged period, particularly beyond an hour, their vulnerability to serious health complications rises. Conditions such as extreme body temperature changes, reduced circulation, and muscle deterioration can set in quickly. Without timely help, even a minor fall can result in hospital admission or long-term health decline. This underlines the need for fast access to assistance, which devices like pendant alarms are specifically designed to provide.