Diagnosis of factors that affect falls

The risk of falling is multifactorial and prevention is usually based on assessing multiple risk factors (NICE 2013).

A history of falls, conditions (that affect mobility or balance, muscle weakness, blood pressure, cognition and vision, for example), polypharmacy and environmental hazards (such as loose rugs, poor lighting, wet/uneven surfaces, poor footwear) all need to be considered when assessing someone’s falls risks. 

Asking about someone’s falls history, assessing their lying/standing BP, screening for delirium using the 4AT and reviewing medications can all reduce the risk of falls.