fallrisiko

Fallrisiko, or fall risk, is the probability that an individual will experience a fall within a given period. In healthcare, assessing fall risk helps identify people who may benefit from prevention strategies. Fallrisiko is influenced by intrinsic factors such as age-related changes, balance impairment, cognitive decline, vision problems, chronic diseases, gait abnormalities, and muscle weakness, as well as extrinsic factors like environmental hazards, poor lighting, slippery floors, clutter, and inappropriate footwear.

Common risk indicators include a history of previous falls, polypharmacy (especially sedatives and blood pressure medications), dehydration, and acute illnesses or delirium. Clinicians often use standardized tools to estimate risk, such as the Morse Fall Scale, Hendrich II, or the Timed Up and Go test. While these tools vary by setting and population, they generally categorize individuals into low, moderate, or high risk to guide prevention efforts.

Prevention of fallrisiko is typically multifactorial. Interventions may include exercise programs to improve balance and strength, home safety assessments and modifications, medication review and optimization, vision correction, and management of conditions that affect blood pressure or dizziness. In care settings, staff education and use of assistive devices as needed are important. Community-based programs may emphasize fall prevention education and maintaining activity levels.

Falls can result in injuries, fear of falling, reduced mobility, and loss of independence. Effective assessment and multifactorial prevention strategies are essential to mitigate fallrisiko and maintain safety and quality of life, especially among older adults and individuals with mobility or cognitive challenges.