Key elements of the history in elderly fallers
| Modified from Bloem BR, Boers I, Cramer M, et al. Falls in the elderly. I. Identification of risk factors. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2001;113:352–62. |
| Classification of falls |
| • Present fall |
| • Earlier falls43 |
| Cause of the fall |
| • None |
| • Environment (eg, loose carpet) |
| • (Sudden) change of posture |
| • Performing several activities simultaneously |
| • Hazardous behaviour |
| • Inappropriate footwear |
| Symptoms preceding the fall |
| • Light-headedness or vertigo |
| • Loss of consciousness |
| • Palpitations/chest pain/breathlessness |
| • Sudden weakness of the legs |
| Symptoms after the fall |
| • Inability to stand up |
| • Loss of consciousness |
| • Physical injury |
| • Fear of falling |
| Secondary immobility |
| Use of walking aids |
| • Prescribed by whom? |
| • Difficulties in use? |
| • If none, why not? |
| Medical history |
| • Prior/current diseases |
| • (Psychoactive) medication and drug combinations |
| • Intoxication (alcohol) |
| Domestic situation |
| • Stairs, lighting, loose rugs, etc. |
| • Support (partner, relatives, friends) |
| Protective factors |
| • Exercise level |
| • Adaptive behaviour/activities |