Sad as it is smoochie accidents like this do happen, and it could have been falling down stairs, stuck in the bath or falling on a fire, or well, just about anything. (my mums 'best one' was falling off a stool, whilst putting the fairy on top of the Christmas tree, she had asked us to do it but as so often, we weren't quick enough in responding, ?8min? so she attempted to do it herself; which is part of the frustration she feels, at not being as able as she once was. The real help would have been if the person was able to call for help, by use of a pendant alarm. But I think many elderly people see them as an admission (to themselves) that they are becoming more dependent, and they understandably don't like it. It usually takes an accident for them to realise the value of an alarm. You just have to hope it is a small accident or a 'bit of a fright' rather than the full on tragedy of the lady mentioned. The sad thing is that they are actually an aid to independence,if the person can just overcome the mind set that they are sign 'failure' (and it is also really important that they don't leave them hung on the back of the bathroom door, where they are as much use as a chocolate fire guard!)