Final answer:
The patient's acknowledgment of the need to take time when getting up from the bed or chair suggests that fall prevention teaching has been effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most effective measure an older adult patient living alone can take to be free from falls is reflected in the statement, "I'll take my time getting up from the bed or chair." This indicates that the patient understands the importance of being cautious when changing positions, which helps prevent dizziness and loss of balance that can lead to falls. On the other hand, keeping throw rugs and wearing smooth-bottom socks can increase the risk of slipping. Likewise, dimmed lighting might contribute to poor visibility, which is another factor for falls.