What to Expect at Your Able Assess Fall Risk Screening

By checking your balance, strength, and mobility, we can spot potential risks early and help you take simple steps to stay steady, confident, and independent.

What Is Able Assess?

Able Assess is a quick, safe, and easy-to-use screening tool that measures your balance, strength, and mobility to assess your risk of falling.

Takes less than 5 minutes to complete
Uses CDC-recommended tests for fall risk assessment, following the Stopping Elderly Emergencies, Deaths, and Injuries (STEADI) framework
Performed with the GripAble sensor, ensuring results are objective, accurate, and reliable
Provides an evidence-based score to guide next steps for your health and wellbeing

You can learn more about the GripAble sensor on the Able Care website.

Your Screening: What to Expect

During your visit, a trained staff member will guide you through four simple assessments using the Able Assess app.

Each movement is timed and measured automatically, so you can simply focus on doing your best at your own pace.

#1 Grip Strength

Purpose: Measures overall body strength – lower grip strength can indicate a higher risk of falling.
How it works: You’ll squeeze a small hand-held device as firmly as you can.
Scoring: Compared against age- and gender-based norms.

#2 Chair to Stand Test

Purpose: Assesses lower limb strength, which is vital for standing, walking, and balance.
How it works: You’ll stand up from a chair and sit back down several times without using your arms.
Scoring: Benchmarked against age- and gender-specific standards.

#3 Timed Up & Go (TUG)

Purpose: Evaluates balance and mobility.
How it works: You’ll stand up, walk three meters, turn around, and sit back down. A walking aid can be used if needed.
Scoring: A time of 12 seconds or more may indicate a higher fall risk.

#4 Gait Speed

Purpose: Measures your walking speed – one of the strongest indicators of independence and fall risk.
How it works: You’ll walk four meters at your usual pace while being timed.
Scoring: A walking speed below 0.8 m/s can be linked to increased risk.

After Your Screening

Once you complete your assessment, you’ll receive a clear summary of your results and next steps if needed.

#1 Receive Your Report

You’ll get a Fall Assessment Report showing your results from all four assessments. It highlights your strengths and any areas where you might be at higher risk.

#2 Share Your Results

You can choose to share your report with your primary care provider (PCP), specialists, or family members. This ensures everyone supporting you has the same accurate information.

#3 Plan Your Care

If you are flagged as “at risk,” you’ll also receive a Next Steps Report with practical, evidence-based recommendations – such as balance classes, physical therapy, nutrition advice, or home safety adjustments.

FAQs: Able Assess Fall Risk Screenings

Will it hurt?

No. All tests are gentle, safe, and specifically designed for older adults.

How long will it take?

The full screening takes less than 5 minutes.

Do I need to prepare?

No preparation is needed – just wear comfortable, sturdy shoes that won’t trip you up.

What happens to my information?

Your results are private and secure, meeting the highest healthcare standards (HIPAA and GDPR compliant). They are only shared with your care team or people you choose.

Why do this test if I haven’t fallen?

Fall risk screening is about prevention. Even if you’ve never fallen, small changes in your strength, balance, or walking speed can be picked up early allowing you to take action before problems arise.

Staying Strong, Steady, and Independent

Able Assess helps you take control of your health in a simple, proactive way.

By understanding your fall risk today, you can make small, positive changes that help you stay active, independent, and confident for years to come.