1. I have fallen in the last six months.

Why It Matters: People who have fallen once are likely to fall again.

2. I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safely.

Why It Matters: People who have been advised to use a cane or walker may already be more likely to fall.

3. Sometimes I feel unsteady when walking.

Why It Matters: Unsteadiness or needing support while walking are signs of poor balance.

 

4. I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home.

Why It Matters: This is also a sign of poor balance.

 

5. I am worried about falling.

Why It Matters: People who are worried about falling are more likely to fall.

 

6. I need to push with my hands to stand up from a chair.

Why It Matters: This is a sign of weak leg muscles, a major reason for falling.

 

7. I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb.

Why It Matters: This is also a sign of weak leg muscles.

 

8. I often have to rush to the toilet.

Why It Matters: Rushing to the bathroom, especially at night, increases your chance of falling.

 

9. I have lost some feeling in my feet.

Why It Matters: Numbness in your feet can cause stumbles and lead to falls.

 

10. I take medicine that sometimes makes me lightheaded or more tired than usual.

Why It Matters: Side effects from medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling.

 

11. I take medicine to help me sleep or improve my mood.

Why It Matters: These medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling.

 

12. I often feel sad or depressed.

Why It Matters: Symptoms of depression, such as not feeling well or feeling slowed down, are linked to falls.