Home HealthTopics Health Centers Reference Library Search NetWellnessSearch   Advanced

Senior Health

Falling out of bed

07/14/2008

Question:

My 85 year old mother has fallen out of bed twice - months apart - it doesnt wake her up even though she is hurt - she wakes later in the night because she is cold on the floor. She is diabetic and thinks she has gone low on blood sugar.

Answer:

The information you provided indicates that your mother needs to be evaluated by a primary care provider. The falls are not within normal aging and need to be evaluated. The situation could be related to the diabetes but needs to be evaluated. Safety is a primary concern when anyone experiences a fall for whatever reason. Your mother needs to be evaluated as soon as possible so that a plan can be developed to prevent falls and injury.

For more information:

Go to the Senior Health health topic, where you can:

Response by:

University of Cincinnati Evelyn L. Fitzwater, DSN, RN
Associate Professor Emerita
Associate Director, Center for Aging with Dignity
College of Nursing
University of Cincinnati
Evelyn L. Fitzwater, DSN, RN