Always lift heavy weights by using the strength of your legs rather than your back. To lift a fallen person, face them with your feet at shoulder width. Bend your knees to lower yourself into a squat, keeping your back straight. Gently maneuver your hands and arms under the person, and grasp him with your palms upward. Press evenly into the ground with both feet, and straighten your legs, making sure your back does not bend.

Hold the person against your body at waist level. Keeping them at your center of gravity like this protects your back. Turn by moving your feet, keeping your body vertically aligned. Do not twist your back to initiate a turn. To put the elderly person down again, reverse your lifting procedure: plant your feet evenly, and bend your knees. Keep your body vertical and the person against your waist. Lower from your legs, not your back or arms.

According to AARP Health, 20 to 30 percent of falls by elderly people result in injury. Check the fallen person for injury before attempting to lift her. If she is injured, she should not be moved without stabilization, so call paramedics to move her instead of doing it yourself. Only move an injured person if he is in danger where he is, for instance, if the room is on fire. If you have the choice, wear loose clothing and flat shoes when you lift an elderly person.

People over the age of 65 can minimize the danger of falling by taking care of themselves and their homes. The elderly should regularly practice strength training to build coordination and improve balance. They should keep their floors clear of clutter, install handles and slip-proof floors in baths and showers and always use handrails when going up and down stairs. They can also reduce their chances of falling by regularly seeing an eye doctor and making sure that any medications they are on combine safely.