| Factors |
Recommended Interventions |
Recent Fall(s) |
Obtain Fall History; circumstances of fall (s):
- Symptoms associated with fall (s)
- Previous falls (past 3 months)
- Location of fall (s)
- Activity at time if fall (s)
- Time of fall (s)
- Trauma associated with fall (s)
Evaluate for presence of osteoporosis and treat as appropriate.
Ask about falls/evaluate fall risk on regular basis. |
Sensory
Reduced vision (cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration)
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- Evaluate vision and treat as appropriate.
- Physical/occupational therapy home safety evaluation
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Underlying Medical Conditions
- Orthostatic Hypotension
- Bladder Dysfunction (urge incontinence, nocturia, frequency)
- Muscle Weakness (especially lower extremities)
- Foot Disorder
- Degenerative Joint Disease (especially hips/knees)
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Gait & Balance Disorder
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- Evaluate medical conditions and treat as appropriate.
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Psychological Status
- Depression/Anxiety
- Cognitive Impairment
- Safety Awareness (Judgment)
- Fear of Falling
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- Depression/cognitive assessment.
- Treat identified conditions.
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Medication Status
- 4 or > Prescription Medications
- Medication Noncompliance
- Psychotropic Medications, Sedatives, Anti-hypertensives (including diuretics)
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- Review need for medications.
- Reduce dosages or eliminate as appropriate
- Simplify patient's medical regimen.
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Functional Status
- Ambulation Impairment
- Transfer Impairment
- Balance Impairment
- Uses cane or walker
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- Identify and treat responsible medical conditions.
- Muscle strengthening and balance exercises.
- Assistive ambulation device (cane, walker).
- Physical/occupational therapy home safety evaluation.
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