geriatrics general-medicine
VES-13 — Vulnerable Elders Survey
13-item self-report screen for vulnerability in community-dwelling adults ≥65 (Saliba 2001). Higher score = greater functional decline / mortality risk. Score ≥3 indicates 4× greater risk of death or functional decline over 2 years.
Used in: Falls & Frailty
Score interpretation
Low vulnerability 0–2
→ Routine care. Encourage exercise, social engagement, falls prevention. Re-screen if clinical change.
Vulnerable — high mortality / functional decline risk 3–10
→ CGA. In oncology setting, predicts treatment toxicity — adjust regimens. Onward referrals to community-frailty MDT, OT / physio, pharmacy review.
Interpretation bands for the VES-13. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Calculators
Pathways
- Falls Assessment in Older Adults · NICE CG161 2013
- Delirium Outside ICU · NICE CG103
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) · BGS / NICE
- Delirium Assessment and Management · NICE CG103 2010
- Frailty Recognition and Management · BGS Frailty Framework / NHS NHSE
- Polypharmacy and Medicines Optimisation · STOPP/START v2 2014 / NICE NG5
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.