Fall Risk Self-Check

1. I have fallen in the past year. Yes = 2 points

Why it matters: People who have fallen once are likely to fall again.

2. I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safely. Yes = 2 points

Why it matters: People who have been advised to use a cane or walker may already be more likely to fall.

3. Sometimes I feel unsteady when I am walking. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: Unsteadiness or needing support while walking are signs of poor balance.

4. I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: This is also a sign of poor balance.

5. I am worried about falling. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: People who are worried about falling are more likely to fall.

6. I need to push with my hands to stand up from a chair. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: This is a sign of weak leg muscles, a major reason for falling.

7. I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: This is also a sign of weak leg muscles.

8. I often have to rush to the toilet. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: Rushing to the bathroom, especially at night, increases your chance of falling.

9. I have lost some feeling in my feet. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: Numbness in your feet can cause stumbles and lead to falls.

10. I take medicine that sometimes makes me feel light-headed or more tired than usual. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: Side effects from medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling.

11. I take medicine to help me sleep or improve my mood. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: These medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling.

12. I often feel sad or depressed. Yes = 1 point

Why it matters: Symptoms of depression, such as not feeling well or feeling slowed down, are linked to falls.