A 73-year-old woman with long-standing hypertension and osteoarthritis presents after a fall at home, having tripped over a rug. She has had two falls...

Question

A 73-year-old woman with long-standing hypertension and osteoarthritis presents after a fall at home, having tripped over a rug. She has had two falls in the last 6 months. She is on six medicines including a benzodiazepine at night. According to Australian fall prevention guidance, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Conduct a multifactorial falls risk assessment including medication review, balance and home hazards

Answer

Arrange hip protectors only

Answer

Recommend a walking frame and no further assessment

Answer

Stop all medicines immediately

Answer

Advise her to stay mainly in bed to avoid further falls

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Falls risk assessment in older adults