Risk assessment forms and management plans

Because the aetiology of falls is complex and there may be multiple risk factors (causes), risk assessment forms enable staff to identify which specific risk factors apply to an individual. The greater the number of risk factors present, the greater the risk of falls. Conversely, the greater number of risk factors addressed and minimised, the lower the risk of falls. Although more research is needed to identify effective risk assessment tools, research has shown that combining risk assessment and management strategies can effectively reduce the number and severity of falls and fall-related injuries. Irrespective of the total risk score, each risk factor identified needs to be appropriately addressed.

Examples of community based falls risk assessment tools for use by service providers are described below. Also provided is a link to examples of risk assessment tools used in residential aged care and self-assessment checklists for distribution to seniors living in their own home.

• Screening Assessment for Falls Evaluation (SAFE)

• Falls risk screening and action plan tool

• Falls prevention guidelines for general practitioners for assessing and managing older people

• QuickScreen©: Clinic falls risk assessment

• Falls Risk for Older People - Community setting (FROP-Com)

Other types of risk assessment tools/checklists

Also provided is a link to samples of risk assessment tools conducted by staff in residential aged care services and self assessment checklists for distribution to seniors living independently in their own home.

• Risk assessments for residential aged care services

• Self assessment checklists for seniors living independently in their own home