Which combination of home safety measures is effective for reducing fall risk in an elderly client?

• A. Remove scatter rugs
• B. Improve lighting in hallways
• C. Keep pathways clear of clutter
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Fall risk in the home is highest when multiple environmental hazards are present. Loose or scatter rugs can easily catch a foot and cause a trip. Dim or poorly lit hallways make it hard to see steps, edges, or obstacles, increasing the chance of a misstep. Clutter in walking areas creates unexpected obstacles that can be blocked or tripped over. Each measure lowers a different type of risk, and using them together provides a broader safety net. By removing rugs that can bunch or slide, improving hallway lighting for clear visibility, and keeping pathways free of clutter, the environment becomes consistently safer for an elderly person. So combining these strategies offers the strongest protection against falls.