REFLECTIONS: Do Not Fall
by Teresita Bacani-Oropilla, MD
In nursing homes, hospitals, street corners, the edge of a cliff for tourists, the important sign is found:“ DO NOT FALL.”
At the end of her day, an active elderly lady decided to close her blinds as she got ready for bed. She tripped on the sofa beside her window and hit her head on the windowsill. Three weeks of medical care were futile. She is resting in peace.
Another slipped in her bathroom while doing her nightly reflections before bedtime. Her family decided she had outlived living alone and ended up in an assisted living home for safety.
A healthy worker was opening the back of her car. A slight rain had sprinkled the driveway. She slipped backward and promptly saw stars as her head hit cement. Luckily, she survived the accident without residual effects.
What happens when one does fall? First, one is lucky if it is observed by someone available to help and not aggravate one’ s injuries. Trained ambulance drivers carefully transport a patient to an available hospital emergency room where a series of professionals, nurses, X-ray technicians and physicians evaluate the gravity of injuries that are found. Some are sent back home if feasible, but others must be admitted for further treatment of fractures, head trauma or other bodily injuries.
One fall, one person, like a tower of fallen play blocks, can be a formidable disaster. It involves families, caretakers, placement for the injured and monetary accountability. Relatives are called upon to help physically, spiritually and monetarily. A son or daughter living in another state in this progressive country has to scramble for caretakers. Or should they? The injured may be a caregiver?
“ Do not fall!” Falling is never voluntary, never planned. With supposed conscious care, following supposed rules, it still happens.
Pray that“ never falling” is in your stars! Dr. Bacani-Oropilla is a retired pediatrician and psychiatrist.
June 2026 33