enhanced confidence. The self-efficacy theory suggests a reciprocal relationship between

efficacy and function; efficacy may influence function, but the ability to complete

functional activities also influences efficacy. Fear of falling assessments are often based

on self-efficacy and assess whether a person feels confident in their ability to complete

activities with out sustaining a fall [112, 147, 174].

Post-stroke fear of falling assessments

 Hellstrom and Lindmark completed a test-retest reliability study of the expanded

Falls Efficacy Scale (Swedish Version) (FES(S)) and compared group differences in

scores on the assessment [173]. The FES was developed by Tinetti et al. and measures

self-perceived fear of falling during the performance of 10 common activities [112]. The

FES(S) includes an additional three items, getting in and out of bed, grooming, and

toileting. These three items were added due to the reduced independence often sustained

by the post-stroke population. Thirty post-stroke participants were included, overall-test-

retest-reliability was high and the FES(S) was indicated as a reliable assessment of falls

efficacy in the post-stroke population. Hellstrom and colleagues completed additional

reliability assessments to determine the ability of the of the FES(S) to assess clinically

meaningful changes over time in the post-stroke population [174]. The changes as

measured by the FES were compared to changes evident using the Berg Balance Scale

and the Fugl-Meyer balance and motor function subscale. The assessments were

completed at admission and discharge from rehabilitation and 10 months later. The

analyses of responsiveness determined individuals post-stroke demonstrated decreased

fall related self-efficacy compared to elderly participants in other fall studies.

 A very recent study examined the reliability and validity of the Activities-specific

Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale for those post-stroke [175]. The ABC is a previously