The 84-year-old was found in the back yard of her Highgate property by a neighbour yesterday and emergency services were called about 12.40pm.
A Hato Hone St John spokeswoman said one ambulance and one rapid-response unit attended and the woman was transported to Dunedin Hospital in a critical condition.
A police spokesman said the woman had been in the garden "for a while" after falling.
"We responded to the call, to lend a hand and make sure that there was nothing untoward there.
"It was not suspicious."
Several residents spoken to by the Otago Daily Times yesterday afternoon were surprised to learn of the incident.
A neighbour, who declined to be named, said he and his family felt terrible they did not hear or see the woman earlier.
"It’s shocking. She’s been lying there for three days while we’ve been at home.
"It’s really sad. We didn’t hear anything at all.
"We feel sick about it."
He said it was a stark reminder for communities to keep tabs on neighbours who might be unwell, frail or living on their own.
"You should make an effort to say gidday to your neighbour — especially if they’re elderly.
"You don’t have to be their best friend. Just check in on them now and then."
Another neighbour was left tearful upon hearing the news.
A contractor who had been working on a nearby house said the incident appeared to have rattled the community.
"It’s pretty shocking really. It’s horrible.
"We feel very sorry for her, that she perhaps suffered as well.
"It’s quite surprising that no-one knew she was there.
"It’s shaken the neighbourhood, that’s for sure."
He said the woman might not have family in Dunedin and agreed it was important that nearby residents kept an eye out for the "frail or infirm" in their area.
"Also, if you have family who are elderly, give them a call every second day, just to check on them.
"It doesn’t take much to give someone a quick call."
