Falls are the number one cause of injury-related death among older adults in the United States, according to the CDC. But here’s what most people don’t realize: fall risk is measurable, and fall prevention is possible—especially when you act early.
If you or a loved one is over the age of 60, there’s never been a more important time to learn about fall risk assessment and take simple steps to reduce the chance of a serious fall.
What Is Fall Risk?
Fall risk refers to how likely a person is to experience a fall, based on a combination of physical, environmental, and medical factors. According to the CDC’s STEADI initiative, common contributors to fall risk include:
Poor balance or leg strength
Side effects from medications
Vision or hearing issues
Foot pain or improper footwear
Hazards in the home like loose rugs or stairs
A previous fall (which doubles future fall risk)
Fortunately, fall assessment tools can identify these issues before they result in injury.
Why Fall Prevention Starts with Early Assessment
Many people wait until a fall happens to take action—but by then, it may be too late. Fall prevention starts with recognizing early warning signs and assessing mobility and balance.
The CDC recommends using standardized tests such as:
Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test
30-Second Chair Stand Test
Four-Stage Balance Test
These tests provide measurable insight into a person’s functional mobility, and they’re used in clinical fall risk assessments every day.
How to Do a Fall Risk Assessment at Home
Thanks to new digital tools, you don’t need to visit a clinic to assess your risk of falls.
StopFalls.app is a web-based application that guides users through evidence-based fall assessments using just a phone or computer. The platform includes:
Step-by-step video-guided testing
Pose and movement analysis powered by AI
Personalized fall prevention recommendations
Instant reports to share with family or providers
These tools are based on the CDC STEADI framework, ensuring you’re using trusted and validated assessments at home.
Fall Prevention Is for Everyone
Whether you’re an older adult, a family caregiver, or a healthcare provider, fall prevention should be a priority.
Regular balance and strength training, reviewing medications with a healthcare provider, and making simple changes at home can all reduce fall risk.
And it all starts with one simple step.
Take a Free Fall Screening
Ready to find out where you stand?
Visit: https://stopfalls.app/checklist No login. No cost. Just answers.
Falls are preventable—if you take action today.
