How is high risk defined in the Hester Davis Scale?

In the Hester Davis Scale (HDS), a score of 15 or greater indicates a high risk of falling. This scoring system is designed to assess various factors that contribute to a person’s likelihood of experiencing falls. Each component of the assessment is weighted, and a cumulative score that reaches 15 or higher signifies a significant level of concern regarding an individual’s stability and risk for falls.

Understanding the rationale behind this scoring helps healthcare professionals identify individuals who may require more intensive interventions or support to mitigate their risk of falls. By recognizing those at high risk, caregivers can implement preventive measures tailored to the individual's needs, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the likelihood of fall-related injuries.