What are intrinsic risk factors for falls?

Intrinsic risk factors for falls primarily refer to internal characteristics of an individual that may increase their likelihood of falling. Medical conditions and diseases constitute these intrinsic factors because they can directly affect a person's balance, coordination, strength, vision, and overall physical stability. For example, conditions such as arthritis may impair mobility, while neurological disorders might affect coordination and reflexes.

When considering intrinsic factors, it's important to note that they are inherently linked to the individual's physical and mental health rather than external environmental factors. Factors such as hazards in the environment, equipment failures, and unsafe personal items represent extrinsic risk factors, which are external issues that can also contribute to the risk of falling but do not stem from within the individual themselves. Understanding the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic factors is crucial for assessing fall risk in clinical and home settings.