How this tool works
Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death among adults 65 and older, and more than 14 million older adults, about 1 in 4, report falling every year, according to the CDC. This checker uses the 12 yes-or-no questions from the CDC's STEADI "Stay Independent" checklist to help you spot common risk factors.
Each "yes" answer adds points. Most questions are worth 1 point; the first two are worth 2. The tool adds up your points. A total of 4 or more means you may be at risk of falling, and the checklist suggests discussing it with your doctor.
| Question | Points if yes |
|---|---|
| I have fallen in the past year. | 2 |
| I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safely. | 2 |
| Sometimes I feel unsteady when I am walking. | 1 |
| I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home. | 1 |
| I am worried about falling. | 1 |
| I need to push with my hands to stand up from a chair. | 1 |
| I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb. | 1 |
| I often have to rush to the toilet. | 1 |
| I have lost some feeling in my feet. | 1 |
| I take medicine that sometimes makes me feel light-headed or more tired than usual. | 1 |
| I take medicine to help me sleep or improve my mood. | 1 |
| I often feel sad or depressed. | 1 |
After scoring, the tool lists prevention steps drawn from the CDC STEADI program.
A worked example
Someone answers "yes" to three questions: they fell last winter (2 points), they are worried about falling (1 point) and they push with their hands to stand up from a chair (1 point). Their total is 2 + 1 + 1 = 4. Because 4 meets the threshold, the result says they may be at risk and should talk with their doctor.
Steps that can lower your risk
- Tell your doctor about any falls or worries about falling.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all your medicines.
- Exercise for strength and balance, for example tai chi.
- Have your eyes checked every year.
- Check your feet and wear safe, supportive shoes.
- Make your home safer: remove trip hazards, add grab bars, put railings on both sides of stairs and use good lighting and night lights.
Our fall prevention guide covers each step, and the exercise goal calculator can help you track balance and strength activity.
Limits of this tool
This is a self-check, not a medical assessment. A low score does not mean you cannot fall, and a high score does not mean you will. Your doctor can test your strength, gait and balance directly.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk with your doctor if your score is 4 or more, if you have fallen even once, or if you feel unsteady. If a fall causes a head injury, severe pain or you cannot get up, call 911.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the first two questions worth more points?
The checklist gives extra weight to a fall in the past year and to needing a cane or walker, because they are strong signs that falls may happen again.
Why are medicines on the list?
Some medicines can cause dizziness, drowsiness or light-headedness. Never stop one on your own; ask your doctor or pharmacist to review them with you.
Can exercise really help?
The CDC lists strength and balance exercise, such as tai chi, among its main prevention steps. Start at a level that feels safe and build up gradually.
How often should I retake the checker?
Retake it whenever your health, medicines or mobility change, or before a yearly checkup so you can share the result.
Sources
Want the full picture? Read our guide: Fall Prevention for Seniors: A Room-by-Room Safety Guide.
Read the guideThis tool gives general information for education only. It does not diagnose any condition or replace advice from your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. In an emergency call 911. See our medical disclaimer and sources.