Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among seniors, and many of them are preventable. As a physical therapist, I witness firsthand every day how easily balance issues and weakness can gradually sneak up on you, increasing the risk of a fall without you even realizing it.

That’s why assessing your fall risk is so important. A quick check-in now can help you catch early warning signs so that you can make a plan, take proactive steps, and ensure you stay steady on your feet for years to come. 

In the physical therapy clinic, I assess each of my patient’s fall risk by doing a thorough review of their medical history, formally testing their strength and balance, and asking them lots of questions, including the ones below. These questions are only one part of the full picture when it comes to your fall risk, so let this serve as a starting point for you, but know that this is not to be used as medical advice. Always reach out to your physician, physical therapist, or other healthcare provider for individualized medical advice. 

Quick Fall Risk Self-Assessment

Take a few moments to answer the questions below honestly: 

1.  Have you fallen in the last 12 months, or had more than one “close call”?

2.  Do you use a cane or walker to get around, even just sometimes? 

3.  Do you feel unsteady or wobbly when you stand or walk?

4.  Do you worry about falling?

5.  Do you notice yourself using furniture or walls to steady yourself at home?

6.  Do you use your hands to help you stand up from a chair or sofa?

7.  Do you notice you don’t “move like you used to,” or that you don’t walk as quickly or as smoothly as you used to? 

8.  Do you notice stairs are more difficult than they used to be, or do you use your hands on the railing to help pull yourself up to go up the stairs?

9.  Do you limit or avoid certain activities, because you feel unsteady? 

Now count: how many questions did you answer “yes” to? 

If you answered “yes” to 0 or only 1 question, you are probably at low fall risk. 

Congratulations, your balance is likely in pretty good shape, and you are able to move easily throughout your day without feeling weak, unsteady, or anxious. At this point, you want to focus on maintaining your current level of mobility so you can stay independent for as long as possible. This is a great time to be proactive and ensure you are in the habit of a regular exercise routine that will keep you strong and balanced, especially as you get older. 

If you answered “yes” to 2-4 questions, you are probably at moderate fall risk.

You are likely starting to feel as though you aren’t as confident and steady as you used to be. You may be starting to feel frustrated that you can’t stand up or get around without more effort, and you may notice you feel anxious or worried about falling. This is an important time to take the first steps towards rebuilding your strength and reversing the trend: let’s get you feeling more steady and confident. 

If you answered “yes” to 5 or more questions, you are probably at high fall risk. 

You may have already had a fall, or frequently have “close calls.” You likely aren’t able to do a lot of the things that bring you joy without feeling scared that you will fall. You may even have to have others help you get around or complete household tasks for you. But hear this: You are not alone. I work with clients every day in physical therapy who are just like you. The most important thing to know is that we can strengthen and rebuild at any age, and it’s never too late to turn your life around and get back to feeling confident and steady on your feet. Let's do this!

What to Do Next

Whether you are concerned about your results, or just want to make sure you have a plan for your future, I have a FREE class coming up: 1 Hour to Better Balance: Easy Steps to Instantly Boost Your Confidence & Prevent Falls 

This 1-hour workshop is the perfect starting point so you can take steps towards better balance today, AND so you can have a plan in place so you don’t have to worry about losing your independence as you age. 

Join Me for the Free Virtual Class:

1 Hour to Better Balance: Easy Steps to Instantly Boost Your Confidence & Prevent Falls 

I’m offering this free, 1-hour virtual workshop, specifically for seniors like you!

In this workshop you will immediately reduce your fall risk with some quick fixes and tips, and you will leave the class feeling confident that you have a plan in place to keep you strong, steady, and independent as you get older.  

➡️ Click here to save your spot now! ⬅️

Take the first step toward staying confident and independent. I’d love to see you there! 

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