Which of the following is NOT a commonly screened geriatric fall risk factor?

• A. History of falls.
• B. Balance impairment.
• C. Obesity.
• D. Vision problems.

Answer: (C)

Fall risk in older adults is assessed by looking for factors that directly affect balance, gait, and safety. Prior falls are a strong predictor of future falls, so asking about any history of falls is a routine part of screening. Balance impairment is checked because instability and poor postural control are immediate contributors to falling, making balance tests or gait assessments a core component of risk evaluation. Vision problems are also commonly screened since reduced visual acuity or peripheral vision can impair hazard detection and depth perception, increasing the likelihood of tripping or misjudging steps.

Obesity, while it can contribute to mobility limitations and joint strain, is not typically a primary focus of standard geriatric fall risk screenings. The commonly emphasized factors are prior falls, balance/gait issues, and vision, along with other considerations like medications, dizziness, and cognitive function. For this reason, obesity is the least likely to be identified as a routinely screened fall risk factor.