How to open a door that the handle has fallen off of?

The handle of my living room door has come off on one side. I can't get out of the room I am in. It is an old handle, not a lock key one. The pole that goes through the middle is still in the door but any time I try turn it it does not make a big difference. Hard to explain without photos. I am panicking and very stressed so I appreciate all advice please.