What Should You Do If an Elderly Person Falls and Suffers a Brain Hemorrhage?

Many elderly individuals experience involuntary bodily movements and frequent unsteadiness while walking as they age, increasing their risk of falls. If a fall results in head trauma—either from direct impact or due to underlying brain pathology—it may lead to intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). So, what should be done if an elderly person suffers a brain hemorrhage after falling?

What to Do When an Elderly Person Suffers Intracranial Hemorrhage After a Fall

Elderly patients with intracranial hemorrhage following a fall require immediate medical attention. Clinicians will determine whether conservative management or surgical intervention is appropriate based on the volume of bleeding and the patient’s overall clinical condition. Prior to medical evaluation, it is essential to position the patient safely in the lateral decubitus position to maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration. Local cold compresses may be applied to help slow the rate of bleeding.

If, after a fall, an elderly patient exhibits no alteration in consciousness and imaging confirms a small, localized hematoma, conservative treatment under physician supervision may be appropriate. Conservative management typically involves pharmacotherapy, including intravenous administration of hemostatic agents such as aminocaproic acid injection or tranexamic acid injection; antiplatelet agents such as aspirin tablets or clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets (used cautiously and only when indicated); and intravenous mannitol to promote hematoma resolution. All medications must be administered strictly under medical guidance.

During follow-up, if hematoma volume increases or neurological deficits—including worsening consciousness—progress, surgical intervention may become necessary. Therefore, even in cases of relatively small-volume ICH following a fall, routine intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is recommended for elderly patients. Such monitoring enables earlier detection of rising ICP—even before overt clinical symptoms manifest—thereby facilitating timely surgical intervention. Early surgical intervention significantly improves clinical outcomes.

Secondly, in cases where the hemorrhage volume is relatively large, patients often present with altered mental status or impaired consciousness. For such patients, surgical evacuation of the hematoma is typically indicated.

Dietary recommendations include consuming whole grains regularly, as they support recovery and enhance nutrient absorption. Daily intake of moderate amounts of milk and soy products is also encouraged, as these foods help inhibit endogenous cholesterol synthesis and lower blood lipid levels.

We hope this information proves helpful.