Question

A 78-year-old man with atrial fibrillation and a recent fall is assessed in general practice. He has a CHA₂DS₂-VASc score of 5 and mild cognitive impairment. According to Australian deprescribing and anticoagulation guidance, which statement best reflects the approach to anticoagulation in older people with falls risk?

Accepted Answer

Falls risk alone is not an absolute contraindication; anticoagulation is usually still recommended when stroke risk is high, with strategies to reduce falls

Answer

Any history of falls is an absolute contraindication to anticoagulation

Answer

Anticoagulation should be stopped in all people over 75 years

Answer

Aspirin is safer and equally effective as anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation

Answer

Stroke risk assessment tools should not be used in older patients

Practice question