Elderly and Infirm Casualties

Overview

Elderly and infirm casualties may be more vulnerable to injury, shock, hypothermia, and complications. Small mechanisms can still cause serious harm.

Assessment Considerations

• Ask about existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, breathing problems, or dementia.
• Check medication use, especially blood thinners, insulin, heart medicine, or sedatives.
• Handle skin carefully because tears and bruising may occur easily.
• Treat falls seriously, even when pain seems mild.
• Keep the casualty warm and off cold surfaces where possible.

Communication

• Speak clearly and use short instructions.
• Allow extra time for hearing, speech, or processing difficulties.
• Use glasses, hearing aids, communication boards, carers, or family if available.
• Do not assume confusion is normal for the person.

Consent And Directions

Some casualties may have advance care plans, medical alerts, or do-not-resuscitate jewellery. Follow local law and workplace protocol. Unless there is a clear lawful direction that applies, continue to provide first aid.

If the casualty cannot understand, communicate, or decide, provide care in their best interests and call 000 when needed.