What is an example of an extrinsic fall risk in the home environment?

An example of an extrinsic fall risk in the home environment is clutter and an untidy living space. This type of risk arises from environmental factors that can lead to accidents or falls. Clutter, such as scattered objects on the floor, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces, can create hazards that are outside of an individual's control.

While personal factors such as weakness from aging, confusion due to medication, and chronic illness can certainly contribute to a person’s overall fall risk, they are classified as intrinsic factors—those that stem from the individual's physical or cognitive condition. Extrinsic risks, on the other hand, are influenced by the individual's surroundings and can often be modified or improved, such as by keeping pathways clear and ensuring adequate lighting. Addressing these extrinsic factors is crucial in fall prevention strategies, particularly for individuals at higher risk for falls.