Seizures and Fainting (Syncope): Fall Prevention Guide for Participants and Families
Some older adults may have conditions that can cause them to suddenly lose consciousness from a seizure or fainting (syncope). This can result to a fall and injury. Knowing what to look for and what to do can help keep you or your loved one safe.
What's the Difference?
Seizure
A sudden brain activity causing shaking, stiffness, or loss of awareness.
Fainting
Also known as syncope, fainting is a short loss of consciousness from low blood pressure or blood flow.
Warning Signs or Symptoms
| Before a Seizure | Before Fainting |
| Odd feeling, smell, or taste | Feeling lightheaded or dizzy |
| Confusion or staring spell | Blurred vision or “spots” |
| Jerking or twitching | Sweating, nausea, or feeling weak |
| Dizziness or sudden fear | Feeling “about to pass out” |
Preventing Falls
For Older Adults at Risk:
- Sit or lie down if you feel dizzy or unsteady.
- Avoid ladders, stairs, or heights when you're alone.
- Use grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathroom.
- Keep walkways clear and well lit.
- Take medications as prescribed and don’t skip doses.
- Eat and drink regularly to prevent fainting.
- Stand up slowly to avoid dizziness.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
For Family Members/Caregivers:
- Watch for warning signs.
- Remove clutter and cords from floors.
- Know what to do if a spell happens.
Family/Caregiver Guide: What To Do During an Episode
| If Seizure: | If Fainting: |
| Stay calm and protect your loved one from injury. | Lay the person flat and raise their legs. |
| Move objects away and cushion their head. | Loosen tight clothing and keep their airway clear. |
| Do not restrain or put anything in their mouth. | If they do not not wake up quickly, call 911. |
| Roll your loved one on the side when movements stop. | |
| Time the seizure — call 911 if it lasts more than 5 minutes. |
Call 911 if:
- Seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
- Person doesn’t wake up.
- Your loved one sustained a head injury, is bleeding, or is in serious pain.
- You’re unsure what to do.
For CenterLight Healthcare Participants:
Speak with your medical provider and inform the CenterLight PACE Care Team.
Report any of the following to ensure your care plan is updated. Your medical provider can help adjust treatment to minimize episodes as well as improve safety.
- New or worsening spells
- Falls or near-falls
- Medication side effects
CenterLight Healthcare PACE is committed to providing accurate health-related information to help individuals live well, stay healthy and make well-informed healthcare decisions. Information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend that users consult with their medical provider regarding their care.
About the Author
This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE. Tatyana celebrated her 20th year of working at CenterLight in 2025.
In her own words:
"Over the years, my responsibilities have evolved, but my mission has remained the same: to ensure our participants are safe in their communities by providing high quality care and being a supportive, collaborative member of the care team. Being a Physical Therapist is more than just a job—it’s a calling. And I’m grateful every day to be part of a field that makes such a difference in people's lives."
Source: https://www.lifeline.com/blog/preventing-winter-falls-tips-for-safety/
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Updated October 31, 2025