Fall Risk Checklist - Free Online Utility Tool

Quick Answer

The Fall Risk Checklist is a free, no-sign-up-required tool to quickly identify your risk of falling using validated factors like history of falls, balance issues, medications, and vision problems[1][2][5][6]. It helps older adults (65+), hospitalized patients, and those with mobility challenges prevent injuries—falls cause 38,000 deaths yearly among seniors and 3 million ER visits[2][4]. Download and use it instantly for targeted prevention, reducing risks by up to 50% with interventions like exercise and home modifications[2][4].

Why You Need This

Falls are the leading cause of injury death for people 65 and older, with 38,000 fatalities in 2021 and 3 million emergency visits annually[2][4]. In hospitals, falls strike 700,000–1 million patients yearly at 3–5 per 1,000 bed-days, while nearly half of 1.6 million U.S. nursing home residents fall each year[3]. Costs hit $80 billion in 2020, projected to top $101 billion by 2030, with Medicare footing 67%[4]. Globally, 684,000 fatal falls occur yearly, plus 37.3 million severe cases[6]. This checklist targets high-risk groups: seniors with balance weakness (nearly 3x risk), diabetics, arthritis sufferers, and those on dizziness-causing meds[2][4][5].

How It Works

Powered by tools like the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model (73.2% sensitivity), Morse Fall Scale, FRAT (scores 5–20 for low-to-high risk), and CDC STEADI checklist, it screens 8–10 key factors in minutes[1][2][6]. Check for prior falls (e.g., 2+ in past year), age 65+, incontinence, polypharmacy (4+ meds), vision impairment, gait issues, and cognitive problems[4][5][6]. Score high? Trigger alerts like orange bands and care plans[1]. Reassess on admission, changes, or 30–90 days later[3].

Tips for Best Results

• Screen accurately: Note fall history, test balance (e.g., Timed Up & Go ≥12 seconds), check meds, vision, and blood pressure[2][3][6].
• Act on scores: High risk (e.g., FRAT 16–20 or MAHC-10 ≥4)? Review meds, exercise for strength, fix home hazards like poor lighting/slippery floors, and use hearing aids to cut risk 50%[1][2][4].
• Follow up: Discuss with doctors (only <50% report falls), track progress, and combine with environmental checks[3][5]. Involve pros for recent fallers to avoid $18,658 per hospital fall cost[4]. Start today—no sign-up needed!

Sources

• scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com
• ncqa.org
• psnet.ahrq.gov
• ncoa.org
• cdc.gov