The Tinetti test, or Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA), assesses balance and gait in older adults. Mary Tinetti published it in 1986 to identify people at risk of falling, and it remains a standard falls assessment in geriatrics and physiotherapy.
The balance section observes sitting, standing up, standing balance, a gentle nudge, eyes closed, turning and sitting down, for a maximum of 16. The gait section observes the patient walking at their usual pace, for a maximum of 12.
Zdrovia: https://www.zdrovia.ca/resources/tinetti-balance-test/
Balance and Gait (POMA)
Tinetti Balance and Gait Test Calculator
Score the 9 balance and 7 gait observations of the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment for a total out of 28 and the fall-risk band.
Balance
Gait
Total score
0 of 20 items scored
Score every item to see the result
Subtotals
These results are estimates based on published clinical data and are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation. Consult a licensed aesthetic practitioner before beginning any treatment. Individual results vary.
Zdrovia's smart blocks drop validated scales into the visit note, keep every item score, and graph the total across visits so the trend is visible at a glance. See how smart blocks work →
Tinetti score interpretation
| Total (out of 28) | Fall risk |
|---|---|
| 18 or less | High |
| 19–23 | Moderate |
| 24–28 | Low |
Balance section maximum 16, gait section maximum 12.
Score it straight into the chart
Zdrovia's smart blocks drop validated scales into the visit note, keep every item score, and graph the total across visits so the trend is visible at a glance.
How to administer the Tinetti test
For balance, use a hard armless chair. Ask the patient to stand up without using their arms if they can, stand still, then stand with feet together while you apply three light pushes to the sternum, then repeat with eyes closed, turn a full circle and sit down.
For gait, have the patient walk about 3 metres down a hallway at their usual pace, turn, and walk back quickly but safely, using their usual walking aid. Observe one aspect at a time: initiation, step length and height on each side, symmetry, continuity, path, trunk sway and stance width.
Why subtotals matter
Two patients can share a total but have very different problems. A low balance subtotal points toward strength and postural control work; a low gait subtotal toward gait training or an aid review. Record both, not just the total.
Static balance: Berg Balance Scale calculator →
References
Other clinical assessment references