Which environmental factors in a resident's room can contribute to falls?

Changes in furniture placement can significantly contribute to falls in a resident's room. When furniture is moved, it may create obstacles or alter the familiar pathways that residents have adapted to over time. This can lead to confusion or missteps, especially for individuals who may have mobility challenges, impaired vision, or cognitive difficulties. Consistent and predictable layouts are important for residents' safety, as they are more likely to navigate their environment confidently when they know the location of furniture and other items.

While hunger and pain can affect a resident's overall wellbeing and may indirectly lead to situations where falls could occur (such as reduced attention during movement), they do not directly impact the physical layout of the environment in the way that changes to furniture do. Therefore, focusing on environmental factors, particularly the arrangement and placement of furniture, is essential in preventing falls.