Environmental modifications to reduce fall risk include which approach?

• A. Increase clutter in living areas.
• B. Decrease lighting.
• C. Remove walls.
• D. Remove loose rugs and improve lighting.

Answer: (D)

Reducing fall risk in the home hinges on removing hazards and boosting visibility. The best approach is to remove loose rugs and improve lighting. Loose rugs are a common tripping hazard; edges can curl, slip, or bunch underfoot, leading to falls. Eliminating them removes a frequent source of missteps. Adequate lighting helps everyone see steps, thresholds, cords, and other obstacles, especially at night, so feet land where they should and transitions are clearer. Good lighting also reduces shadows that can hide hazards around furniture.

Choices that add clutter or reduce illumination would raise the chance of falling, and removing walls isn’t a practical or safe safety measure for fall prevention.