Loading...
Printed on 4/21/2026
For informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) evaluates functional balance through 14 standardized tasks, each scored 0-4 for a total of 0-56. It is used in geriatrics, neurology, and rehabilitation to estimate fall risk, characterize balance impairment severity, and monitor therapy response.
Formula: BBS total = sum of 14 task scores (0-4 each), total range 0-56.
BBS is one of the most widely validated clinical balance measures in older-adult and rehabilitation populations.
Lower BBS totals indicate greater balance impairment and increased fall-risk signal.
Use for objective balance assessment in older adults with mobility concerns, falls, or rehabilitation needs.
Ceiling effects may occur in higher-functioning patients; some fall risks are not fully captured by BBS alone.
For related assessments, see Tinetti POMA, Timed Up and Go and 4m Walking Speed.
Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.
A structured gait-and-balance assessment (0-28) used to estimate fall risk in older adults.
GeriatricsAssess mobility and fall risk with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. TUG >12 seconds indicates high fall risk. Times the performance of standing, walking 3 meters, turning, and returning to seated.
GeriatricsCalculate usual gait speed over 4 meters (m/s), a key functional vital sign in older adults.
GeriatricsAssess lower-extremity functional strength and mobility by timing 5 repeated chair stands.