Several recent studies have determined that a low-tech tool can be used to predict functional limitations that may predict future falls. The ability to cut one’s own toenails is increasingly being used to assess limitations along with the ability to climb stairs and use personal or public transportation.
For years, the tried and true Timed Get Up and Go (TUG) test has been used to assess an individual’s mobility. An individual wearing their normal footwear and using their normal assistive walking devices is asked to get up out of a chair, walk three metres, turn around, go back to the chair and sit down. If this can be completed in under 10 seconds, mobility is deemed to be good. Three additional time increments determine the individual’s ability to be independent.
Health care professionals who can employ two or more of these simple tests can be expected to comfortably predict future falls, allowing the individuals to take preemptive steps to prevent either the fall or the injury that might result from a fall.