An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) teaches an 87 year-old patient about home safety. Which of the following would the APRN include in the education?

Home safety education for older adults focuses on reducing fall risk, improving environmental visibility, and minimizing hazards that can impair mobility and cognition. Age-related changes such as decreased vision, slower reaction time, and reduced balance increase vulnerability to household injuries. Effective interventions prioritize safe navigation of the home environment, especially in high-risk areas such as hallways, stairs, and bathrooms. Nurses play a key role in identifying and correcting preventable safety risks. Rationale: A. Avoiding wearing shoes inside the house is not recommended because going barefoot or wearing socks can increase the risk of slipping and falls. Supportive, non-slip footwear provides better stability and protection for older adults. Proper shoe use is a key component of fall prevention strategies in the home. B. Installing bright lighting and lightweight curtains improves visibility and reduces fall risk by ensuring the patient can clearly see obstacles, furniture, and floor changes. Adequate lighting is especially important for aging eyes, which may have reduced visual acuity and slower adaptation to changes in light. Lightweight curtains also allow more natural light into the home, further enhancing safety. C. Placing throw rugs around the home increases the risk of tripping and falls, especially in older adults with impaired balance or mobility. Rugs can shift or curl at the edges, creating unstable walking surfaces. Removing or securing loose rugs is a key home safety recommendation to prevent injury. D. Keeping medications on the counter for easy access is unsafe because it increases the risk of medication errors, accidental ingestion, and improper storage conditions. Medications should be stored in a labeled, secure, and organized system to ensure correct dosing and prevent misuse. Safe storage practices are essential for medication safety in older adults.