Fall Risk Self-Assessment Tool

Falls are the main reason older adults lose their independence

The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances are of falling.

Am I at risk of falling?
Helpful tip: Learn more about reducing your risk, as people who have fallen are more likely to fall again.
Helpful tip: Talk with a physiotherapist about the most appropriate walking aid for your needs.
Helpful tip: Exercising to build strength and to improve your balance can reduce your risk of a fall.
Helpful tip: Do balance exercises every day. Consider having a home safety assessment. Remove hazards at home that might cause a trip or slip.
Helpful tip: Learning how to prevent a fall can reduce fear and promote active living.
Helpful tip: Strengthening your muscles can reduce your risk of falling and being injured.
Helpful tip: Daily exercise can help improve your strength and balance.
Helpful tip: Rushing increases your risk of falling. Make sure the pathway to the bathroom is well lit and free of clutter. Talk with your doctor or health care professional about potential treatment options.
Helpful tip: Talk with your doctor or health care professional as numbness in your feet can cause falls.
Helpful tip: Talk with your doctor, health care professional or pharmacist about medication side effects that may increase the risk of a fall.
Helpful tip: Talk with your doctor, health care professional or pharmacist about other ways to get a good night’s sleep or improve your mood.
Helpful tip: Talk with your doctor or health care professional about symptoms of depression and finding help with positive solutions.
Your score is 4 points or more. You may be at risk. Talk to your doctor or health care professional about any questions you may have.

Ways to prevent falls and injuries from falls, maintain independence and promote healthy aging:

  • Be active
    Daily physical activity can give you the balance, strength and flexibility you need to stay healthy.
  • Use medication wisely
    Medications can affect your alertness, balance, and stability. Review your medications with your health care professional or pharmacist every six months.
  • Do a home safety check
    Ensure good lighting, particularly on stairs. Take your time; move at a pace that is comfortable.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet
    Follow Canada’s Food Guide and enjoy a variety of healthy foods each day. Calcium and vitamin D are important for bone health; ask your health care professional if you are getting enough.

Even if you have a low risk of falling, continue to be physically active, use medication wisely, do a home safety check and eat a well-balanced diet.

Read Your Guide To Fall Prevention for more helpful tips.

For more information about healthy aging and preventing falls, please visit york.ca/healthyaging