What is a common environmental hazard for older adults at home?

Citing poor lighting as a common environmental hazard for older adults at home is particularly relevant to their safety and overall well-being. Older adults often experience diminished vision due to age-related changes, making it crucial for their living spaces to be well-lit. Poor lighting can significantly increase the risk of falls, which are a leading cause of injury and morbidity in this population. When areas of the home lack adequate illumination, older individuals may have difficulty seeing obstacles or uneven surfaces, increasing the likelihood of missteps or accidents.

This concern is further compounded by the natural aging process, which may also include decreased depth perception and contrast sensitivity. Therefore, ensuring that homes are well-lit not only helps improve visibility but also enhances the older adult's confidence in moving around their environment, thus promoting independence and reducing the risk of falls.

Other options such as poor ventilation or excessive noise may affect comfort or well-being but do not directly correlate to an immediate and significant risk of injury in the same way that poor lighting does. Similarly, while high temperatures can lead to discomfort and health issues, the immediate influence of lighting on fall risk makes it a more pressing environmental hazard for older adults at home.