Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I)

The Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), developed by Lucy Yardley and colleagues in 2005, is a validated tool measuring fear of falling and confidence in balance in older adults and others at risk of falls. The 16-item scale assesses how confident a person feels performing daily activities without falling (self-efficacy for fall avoidance). Fear of falling is not anxiety disorder but a rational concern that, if excessive, can lead to activity restriction, deconditioning, and further fall risk. The FES-I is used internationally in clinical practice and research to identify patients at risk for this vicious cycle and guide fall prevention interventions.