A checklist for assessing the risk of falls among the elderly

The purpose of this study was to estimate the risk of falls among elderly citizens by using a checklist. This checklist was initially developed using the Delphi technique, then refined on the basis of research findings. Cross-sectional design and a purposive sample were used, with the sample selected from three sheltered housing projects (n = 302) and from Win-san district (n = 103) in Taipei, comprising 405 participants. On the basis of their experiences of falling in the previous year, participants were classified into two groups: fall (n = 202) and non-fall (n = 203). Participants in the fall group had lower scores on an SPMSQ (Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire), took longer to complete the Get-up and Go test and were more afraid of falling. Participants who took longer than one second to complete the Get-up and Go test or had urinary frequency or incontinence problems were found to be at greater risks for falls. The elderly who lived in homes with dimly lit kitchens and clutters at entryways (or backyards) were found to be at a considerably greater risk, by 22 or 13 times respectively. This checklist can be used by care providers to identify those providing care to the elderly, those at high risk of falls, and to prevent such falls or, at least lessen the risks of falls.