A complete assessment addresses each of the following each visit, scaled to the patient's diagnosis and stability:
Fall risk — history of falls, gait and balance, dizziness or orthostatic symptoms, vision, footwear, polypharmacy, and environmental contributors.
Home-environment hazards — clutter, throw rugs, lighting, stairs and railings, bathroom safety, cords, and pets.
Medication safety — storage, organization, the patient's understanding, polypharmacy, high-risk medications, duplications or errors, and expired medications.
Emergency preparedness — a working phone, emergency contacts, smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors, the ability to evacuate, oxygen safety where applicable, and a backup plan for power-dependent equipment.
The ability to summon help in an emergency.
Wandering or elopement risk when cognitive impairment is present (assessed with Cognitive / Mental Status).
