How to Help Someone Stand Up from the Floor

Helping someone stand up from the floor can seem like a tricky task, especially if they’re struggling with balance or strength. It’s not just about lifting; it’s about being mindful of their safety and your own. If not done correctly, it can lead to falls or injuries, both for the person you’re helping and yourself.

If you’re in a hurry: To help someone stand up, guide them to roll onto their side, help them get to their knees, and then support them as they push up from a stable surface like a chair or table.

1. Assess the Situation

Before jumping in to help, it’s important to quickly assess the situation. Is the person in pain? Do they feel dizzy or weak? Ask them how they feel before proceeding. If the person has fallen due to an injury or is experiencing severe pain, it’s best to call for medical help. You don’t want to risk moving someone if they’re hurt badly, especially if there’s a possible fracture or head injury.

If they’re not in pain and feel capable of trying to stand, proceed with care. Remember, never try to lift someone entirely by yourself, especially if they’re larger than you. It’s important to use safe techniques to avoid hurting your back or the person you’re assisting.

2. Encourage Them to Take Their Time

When someone has fallen, it can be a scary and overwhelming experience. Encourage them to stay calm and take their time. Rushing can lead to slips or more accidents. Let them know that it’s okay to take a moment to catch their breath and that you’re there to help.

3. Guide Them to Roll onto Their Side

Once they’re calm, ask them to roll onto their side. This step is important because it allows them to reposition themselves in a way that makes it easier to move onto their hands and knees. Offer support by gently holding their arm or back if needed, but let them do most of the work. It’s safer for them to use their own strength as much as possible.

4. Help Them Get onto Their Hands and Knees

Once they’re on their side, the next step is to help them get onto their hands and knees. This position is more stable than lying flat and makes it easier for them to push up. Offer your hand or gently support their arm to help them balance as they move into this position. Be patient, and let them go at their own pace.

5. Find a Stable Surface

Look around for a sturdy surface they can hold onto, like a chair, table, or even a low bench. The goal is for them to use this surface to help push themselves up. Guide them to crawl or shuffle on their knees towards the surface. It’s important that the surface is stable and won’t slide away when they lean on it.

6. Help Them Push Up

Once they’re in front of the stable surface, encourage them to place both hands on it for support. Guide them to lift one foot and place it flat on the ground, leaving the other knee on the floor. This creates a strong base for them to push up from. Offer to support their arm or back, but make sure they’re doing most of the pushing. You don’t want to pull or lift them, as that could hurt both of you.

Once they’re in a half-kneeling position, they can push up using the surface and their legs. Stay close by, offering a hand if needed, but let them control the movement.

7. Ensure They Are Stable

Once they’re standing, don’t let go right away. Ask how they’re feeling and make sure they’re steady on their feet before letting go. If they feel wobbly, guide them to sit down on a chair or a sturdy surface. This way, they can rest and regain their strength before moving around again.

Common Questions Readers Might Have

1. What if the person is too heavy for me to help?

If someone is too heavy for you to help alone, do not attempt to lift them by yourself. Instead, ask for assistance from another person or call for professional help. It’s better to wait for help than to risk injuring yourself or them.

2. Can I lift them up under their arms?

No, avoid lifting someone up by their arms or shoulders. This can cause injury to their joints, and it’s not a stable or safe way to help. Always focus on using a stable surface and letting them push themselves up.

3. What if they are injured?

If the person is injured or in severe pain, do not try to move them. Call for medical help right away, as moving them could make the injury worse. Keep them comfortable and wait for professional assistance.

4. Should I use a lift device?

If you have access to a lift device, like a gait belt or a mechanical lift, these can be helpful for safely assisting someone in standing up. However, make sure you’re trained on how to use them properly.

5. What if they can’t get up at all?

If the person is unable to get up after multiple attempts or is too weak to push up, do not force the situation. Keep them calm and comfortable and call for medical assistance. They may need professional help to stand safely.

Key Points to Remember

• Stay calm: Encourage the person to take their time.
• Assess the situation: Ensure they’re not injured before helping.
• Use a stable surface: Find something sturdy for them to hold onto.
• Let them do the work: Avoid pulling or lifting them yourself.
• Call for help: If the person is too heavy or injured, get professional assistance.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading this article! I hope it helped you understand how to assist someone in standing up from the floor safely. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to comment below!