What is the maximum score of the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment, and what score indicates high fall risk?

What is the maximum score of the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment, and what score indicates high fall risk?

• A. 28; less than 19 indicates high fall risk
• B. 28; less than 15 indicates high fall risk
• C. 32; less than 19 indicates high fall risk
• D. 30; less than 20 indicates high fall risk

Answer: (A)

The scoring concept here is how the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) is quantified: it combines balance and gait into a total that can reach a maximum of 28 points, with higher scores reflecting better mobility. A total score under 19 is used to indicate high fall risk, guiding clinical decisions about fall-prevention needs. Therefore, the correct statement is that the maximum is 28 and a score below 19 signals high fall risk. The other options misstate either the maximum possible score or the cutoff for high fall risk.

The scoring concept here is how the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) is quantified: it combines balance and gait into a total that can reach a maximum of 28 points, with higher scores reflecting better mobility. A total score under 19 is used to indicate high fall risk, guiding clinical decisions about fall-prevention needs. Therefore, the correct statement is that the maximum is 28 and a score below 19 signals high fall risk. The other options misstate either the maximum possible score or the cutoff for high fall risk.