Which of the following is a fall risk factor in older adults?

Which of the following is a fall risk factor in older adults?

• A. Above age 60
• B. Regular exercise
• C. Good vision
• D. Strong balance

Answer: (A)

Fall risk increases with age because aging brings declines in strength, balance, vision, and reaction time, along with more chronic illnesses and medications that can affect coordination. Being above sixty reflects these age-related changes, so it is a fall risk factor. Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves balance, and enhances gait; good vision helps detect hazards; and strong balance provides better postural control and quicker recovery from a stumble. The other options describe protective factors that reduce fall risk, whereas advancing age is the factor that increases it.

Fall risk increases with age because aging brings declines in strength, balance, vision, and reaction time, along with more chronic illnesses and medications that can affect coordination. Being above sixty reflects these age-related changes, so it is a fall risk factor. Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves balance, and enhances gait; good vision helps detect hazards; and strong balance provides better postural control and quicker recovery from a stumble. The other options describe protective factors that reduce fall risk, whereas advancing age is the factor that increases it.