Berg Balance Scale Calculator (14-item balance test score)

Understanding the Berg Balance Scale calculator — concept and principle

This calculator adds up the Berg Balance Scale, a 14-item test of balance during everyday tasks, scored 0–56, and places the total in the bands printed on the score sheet. Physiotherapists, occupational therapists and nurses use it to assess balance and track change, especially in older adults.

14 tasks, 0–4 points each — with the default inputs: 42 of 56.

How it is calculated

14 tasks, from sitting to standing to standing on one leg, each scored 0–4
4 = does it fully, safely and within the time or distance asked; 0 = cannot do it or needs a lot of help
The rater chooses the lowest level that applies
Total = sum (0–56); bands: 0–20 wheelchair bound, 21–40 walking with assistance, 41–56 independent

The principle

Berg and colleagues developed the scale in 1989–1992 to measure balance in older people by watching them perform tasks that challenge balance more and more: from sitting unsupported, through standing with feet together and reaching forward, to turning, stepping and standing on one leg. Each task is scored on the same 0–4 scale, so the total reflects overall balance ability. Lower scores are linked to a higher risk of falling.

Worked example

Defaults: 4, 4, 4, 4, 3, 4, 3, 3, 3, 3, 2, 2, 2, 1.

Total = 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 3 + 4 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 42.
Band: Independent (41–56).
Points below the maximum = 56 − 42 = 14.

How to read the result

Where does your result fall?

This person is in the independent band but close to its lower edge, and the lowest scores are in turning, stepping, tandem stance and single-leg stance, the hardest tasks. Those items point to where balance training may help. Changes over time, measured by the same rater method, show progress.

Common mistakes

Scoring without following the standard instructions and time limits.
Giving the higher score when a lower level also applies.
Using the bands alone to predict falls for one person.
Comparing scores from raters trained differently.

Keep in mind: This is a clinical measure for trained staff, not a diagnosis. Stand close to the person being tested to prevent falls.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good Berg Balance Scale score?

41–56 is grouped as independent on the score sheet; higher scores indicate better balance.

How long does the test take?

Usually about 15–20 minutes.

Can I test myself at home?

It is designed to be scored by a trained rater who can keep you safe.

Sources: Berg K, Wood-Dauphinee S, Williams JI, Maki B, "Measuring balance in the elderly: validation of an instrument", Can J Public Health 1992;83(Suppl 2):S7–S11 · American Physical Therapy Association, Berg Balance Scale form

Checked 9 Nov 2026. Berg K, Wood-Dauphinee S, Williams JI, Maki B, “Measuring balance in the elderly: validation of an instrument”, Can J Public Health 1992;83(Suppl 2):S7–S11; task list, 0–4 scoring rule and score bands from the Berg Balance Scale form posted by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) with permission of Katherine Berg. Task names here are our own short descriptions.

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