What to Do When Your Parent Needs Care After a Fall: A Family Guide

A sudden fall can turn a family’s world upside down. One moment your parent is living independently, and the next you’re navigating hospital visits, medical jargon, and urgent questions about their recovery. If you’re wondering what to do when your parent needs care after a fall, know that you are not alone, and there are clear steps you can take to keep them safe and supported.

Falls in Canada: The Facts

Falls are the number one cause of injury among older Canadians. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, about one in four seniors (20–30%) experiences a fall each year, most often in and around the home. These falls frequently happen in bathrooms, bedrooms, and on stairs, and are a leading reason for hospitalization. With Canada’s aging population, the rate of falls and their impact on independence continues to rise. This is more than an individual health concern. It is a public health crisis.

Step 1 – Immediate Medical Attention

The first priority after a fall is safety. If your parent is injured or unable to get up, call emergency services right away. While waiting for help, gather any important information, such as a list of medications, allergies, and pre-existing conditions. This ensures that hospital staff can act quickly.

At the hospital, doctors will assess injuries and may order scans or tests. Staying calm and prepared allows you to support your loved one with confidence.

Step 2 – Communicating with Hospital Staff

Hospitals can feel overwhelming, especially when decisions need to be made quickly. Designating one family member as the main point of contact helps prevent confusion. Make sure to:

• Ask doctors about the extent of the injury and expected recovery time.
• Request clear instructions for the next steps, such as rehabilitation or home care needs.
• Advocate for your parent respectfully, ensuring their voice and preferences are heard.

Step 3 – Understanding Rehab and Recovery Options

Once your parent is stable, the next step is planning recovery. Depending on the severity of the fall, the hospital may recommend:

• A short stay in a rehabilitation center.
• Returning home with outpatient rehab visits.
• Arranging in-home support for daily activities.

Before discharge, ask about physical therapy, equipment needs (like walkers or grab bars), and follow-up appointments. A safe, realistic plan will help your parent transition more smoothly and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.

Step 4 – Arranging Home Care Support Quickly

Many families are surprised by how soon discharge happens. In these moments, home care becomes vital. Professional caregivers can assist with:

• Personal care, such as bathing and dressing.
• Medication reminders and monitoring.
• Companionship and reassurance during recovery.
• Home safety, including reducing trip hazards.

Strong post-discharge support not only helps your parent heal but also plays a key role in preventing hospital readmissions. At Good Comfort, we step in quickly to provide compassionate care tailored to your parent’s needs, giving families peace of mind during stressful times.

Products That Keep Parents Safe

When people are discharged from the hospital, they are often handed a long list of care products to buy and set up at home. For many families, this is overwhelming. Where do you go? What products are reliable? How do you know what is truly needed?

At Good Comfort, we remove the guesswork and hassle. We bring trusted, tested products directly to families, from grab bars and non-slip mats to fall-alert devices and mobility aids. We can even set up the home environment in advance so that everything is ready when your parent arrives. Combined with our PSW care in place, this creates a simple, stress-free, and seamless experience for families.

Remote Care Monitoring

Beyond physical products, we also provide smart remote care monitoring solutions. These tools track movement patterns, detect falls in real time, and can automatically alert family members or care teams. Whether your loved one is living at home, in a residence, or recovering after a hospital stay, remote monitoring adds a vital layer of protection and peace of mind. It allows families to know that someone is watching out for their loved one even when they cannot be there in person.

Step 5 – Checklist for Families

When urgent care is needed, having a checklist makes all the difference. Here’s a quick guide:

Who to Call:

• Doctor or hospital discharge team
• Rehabilitation specialist (if recommended)
• Home care provider

What to Gather:

• Insurance information
• Medication list and prescriptions
• Identification and medical history

What to Prepare at Home:

• Remove loose rugs or clutter
• Set up mobility aids (grab bars, walkers, non-slip mats)
• Arrange a comfortable, accessible recovery space

Supporting Your Parent and Yourself Through the Transition

Caring for a parent after a fall isn’t just about physical recovery. Emotional support is just as important. Reassure your loved one that healing takes time, and celebrate small milestones along the way.

For adult children, it’s equally vital to care for yourself. Lean on family, ask for help when needed, and explore digital tools that can make caregiving easier. We’ve shared five essential digital tools to simplify caregiving, resources that support both you and your parent through this journey.

Moving Forward with Confidence

A fall can feel like a crisis, but with the right steps, families can regain stability and ensure their loved one recovers safely. By knowing what to do at the hospital, during rehab, and at home, you’ll feel more confident navigating this challenging moment. Just as important, strong follow-up and ongoing care reduce the chance of hospital readmissions, keeping recovery on track.

Looking for care that puts people first? At Good Comfort, we provide personalized support that brings dignity, respect, and peace of mind to every family.

Connect with us today to see how we can be your Care Partner.