The Prevention and Management of Falls in the Community: A Framework for Action for Scotland 2014/2015

Additional information:

Suggestion

A simple test such as the Timed Up and Go or the Up and Go will provide the opportunity to observe difficulties with standing from sitting, balance, walking, turning and sitting down.

Suggestion

If you would like to use an assessment tool as part of the screen, the Falls Efficacy Scale- International is validated.

Abbreviated Mental Test is commonly used.

Suggestion

• Enquire about existing heart problems including arrhythmias, valve disease, palpitations
• Ask about any blackouts, or light-headedness when standing from lying/sitting
• Consider checking lying to standing BP if the assessor is trained, competent and has suitable equipment

Suggestion

• Identify problems with co-ordination and balance while screening gait and balance (see above)
• Enquire about loss of sensation.

Consider:

• polypharmacy
• types of medications
• compliance with medication
• reason for non-compliance.

Agree the screening/trigger questions locally with the service or professional the assessor will be referring on to, such as the GP, pharmacist or falls clinic etc.

Consider:

weight loss and chewing problems.