Tag: Balance assessment

According to Physiopedia, a reach of less than 6 inches in the Functional Reach Test can indicate a four times greater risk of falls in older adults. This common physical assessment is used to objectively measure a person's stability, but many ask, **what does reach test for?** It evaluates critical aspects of functional movement, including balance and flexibility, for a comprehensive look at physical health.

According to the CDC, falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults in the U.S., making a thorough balance assessment a critical nursing responsibility. A nurse must check for a client’s stability through a series of observations and tests that evaluate their neurological, musculoskeletal, and sensory functions.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults over 65, making balance assessment a critical component of geriatric care. This guide details **how to assess balance in a patient** using standardized clinical methods and structured protocols.