Recreating Fall Risk Appraisal matrix using R to support fall prevention programs.

Objective: This study aimed to optimize Fall Risk Appraisal (FRA) graphing for use in intervention programs tailored toward reducing the fall risk of older adults by using computing graphic functions in the R language.

Materials And Methods: We utilized RStudio, a free development environment for the R language, as well as the functions within the "ggplot2" and "grid" packages, to develop a code that would recreate the FRA matrix for use in data visualization and analysis, as well as feedback for older adults.

Results: The developed code successfully recreates the FRA matrix in R and allows researchers and clinicians to graph participant data onto the matrix itself.

Comparing Sensitivity, Specificity, and Accuracy of Fall Risk Assessments in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Purpose: The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has implemented the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries (STEADI) initiative. This initiative provides an algorithm for fall risk screening. However, the algorithm has the potential to overcategorize individuals as high risk for falling upon initial screening, which may burden clinicians with the task of recategorizing individuals after follow-up testing.