fallrisk

Fall risk refers to the probability that a person will experience a fall within a given time frame. It is influenced by intrinsic factors such as age-related decline in balance, muscle strength, and gait; medical conditions like Parkinson's disease, stroke, and diabetes; cognitive impairment; and sensory deficits. Extrinsic factors include home hazards, inappropriate footwear, and environmental conditions. Falls are a major cause of injury and loss of independence, particularly among older adults and hospitalized patients.

Assessment commonly uses standardized tools and functional tests. Examples include the Morse Fall Scale, Hendrich II Fall Risk Model, and STRATIFY. Clinicians may also measure gait speed, perform the Timed Up and Go test, or conduct a comprehensive functional assessment to estimate risk.

Risk factors include prior falls, advanced age, polypharmacy, sedating medications, orthostatic hypotension, vision impairment, cognitive impairment, balance and gait disorders, muscle weakness, and environmental hazards. These factors often interact, raising the likelihood of a future fall.

Prevention and management involve multi-factorial approaches. Interventions include structured exercise programs for strength and balance (such as Otago or Tai Chi), environmental modifications (lighting improvements, clutter removal, grab bars), appropriate footwear and assistive devices, medication review, vision correction, and staff education. After a fall, prompt assessment and initiation of safety planning are essential to reduce recurrence and preserve independence.