Emergency guidance and trusted help

Medical warning signs — get help today

• Sudden confusion or a sharp change from their usual baseline (often infection or dehydration)
• A fall with head impact, or any fall while on blood thinners
• Chest pain, trouble breathing, face drooping, one-sided weakness or slurred speech
• Not drinking for a full day, no urine output, or a fever they cannot shake
• Talk of ending their life, or aggression that puts anyone at real risk of harm

Calming an escalating moment

1. 1Lower your voice and slow down before you say anything else.
2. 2Step out of arm's reach and give them space to move — never block a doorway.
3. 3Validate the feeling: "I can see this is scary. I'm right here with you."
4. 4Remove the demand. Whatever the task was, it can wait.
5. 5Change the setting: quieter room, softer light, familiar music, a warm drink.
6. 6If you feel unsafe, leave the room if it is safe to do so and call for help.

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