Which of the following is a strategy to prevent falls in older adults?

• A. Home safety assessment and modifications
• B. Sedative medication at night
• C. Ignore medications
• D. High-impact exercise only

Answer: (A)

Preventing falls in older adults hinges on reducing hazards in the living environment and making daily routines safer. A home safety assessment and modifications directly address common risk factors by identifying issues like poor lighting, loose rugs, cluttered walkways, lack of grab bars in the bathroom, slippery floors, and uneven surfaces. Implementing changes such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, securing loose carpets, removing obstacles, adding non-slip mats, and organizing furniture to create clear paths lowers the likelihood of tripping, slipping, or losing balance during ordinary activities.

Other options raise or fail to address fall risk. Sedative medication at night can impair balance and alertness, increasing the chance of falls. Ignoring medications ignores potential side effects or interactions that may contribute to dizziness or weakness. High-impact exercise alone is not a targeted fall-prevention strategy and can increase injury risk; balanced, strength and balance training is more appropriate, often alongside environmental modifications.

Thus, addressing the home environment through a safety assessment and appropriate modifications is the most effective single strategy for preventing falls.