About 20 years ago, my (independent, stubborn) 80yo mother was in her backyard breaking up kindling by stepping on it. She lost her balance and fell, breaking her hip. Since no one else was around, she drug herself to the back door, let herself in, and continued to drag herself about the house for the NEXT THREE DAYS! It wasn't until a neighbor noticed he hadn't seen her that he called the police to do a welfare check, who convinced her that a trip to the hospital for treatment would be a good idea.

Lessons learned:
1) Keep a phone within easy reach of the floor
2) Keep in closer contact with aging parents

Hope this helps,
Steve Brooks
WeCare Home Assistants
Walnut Creek, CA