This checklist is designed for families conducting a home safety review for an aging parent or relative. It covers the most common hazards identified in professional home safety assessments, organized by room for practical use.

Print this page and walk through the home with it. Check items that are already addressed. Flag items that need attention. Prioritize based on the individual's specific functional limitations and fall risk factors.

Entryway and Exterior

  • Exterior walkways, steps, and driveway are in good repair (no cracks, uneven surfaces, or heaving)
  • All exterior steps have a securely anchored handrail on at least one side (both sides preferred)
  • Exterior lighting covers all entry paths and activates automatically (motion sensor or dusk-to-dawn)
  • Door threshold is flush or ramped — no raised lip greater than ½ inch
  • Entry door is operable without fine motor coordination (lever handle preferred over round knob)
  • No loose or uneven door mat at entry
  • Adequate surface for putting on and removing shoes while seated (bench or chair)

Living Room and Common Areas

  • Walkways through the room are clear and at least 36 inches wide
  • No loose rugs anywhere in the room
  • All electrical cords routed along walls, not crossing walkways
  • Furniture arrangement allows stable surfaces within arm's reach along primary travel paths
  • Chairs and sofas are firm enough to rise from independently (soft couches that "swallow" the sitter are fall risks)
  • Remote controls, medications, phone, and frequently used items within easy reach from primary seating
  • Lighting is adequate without glare — no areas of significant shadow along travel paths
  • Light switches are accessible at both ends of any hallway

Kitchen

  • Frequently used items stored between waist and shoulder height — no reaching above head or bending to floor level required for daily items
  • Non-slip mat in front of the sink (with non-slip backing)
  • Step stool is stable, has a handrail, and is only used when necessary
  • Stove controls are at the front or side — not requiring reach over burners
  • Cabinet handles are D-ring or lever style (operable without grip strength)
  • Kitchen faucet is lever-style
  • Table and chairs are stable — no wobbling or rolling
  • Fire extinguisher is present and current
  • Smoke detector in or immediately adjacent to kitchen is functional

Bathroom (Highest Priority)

  • Grab bar installed next to toilet, anchored into wall studs
  • Grab bar installed inside shower or tub enclosure, anchored into wall studs
  • Non-slip strips applied to tub floor or shower base
  • Non-slip mat with suction backing placed immediately outside shower or tub
  • No loose bath rugs on bathroom floor
  • Toilet seat height is adequate — raised seat or comfort-height toilet if standard height is difficult
  • Shower bench or chair available for seated bathing
  • Handheld showerhead installed
  • Nightlight present inside bathroom, auto-activating
  • Light switch reachable from the doorway without entering the room
  • Bathroom door swings outward or is a sliding/pocket door (inward-swinging door that could be blocked by a fallen person is a safety risk)
  • Hot water heater set to 120°F or below (scalding risk for those with reduced sensation)

Bedroom

  • Bed height appropriate — seated position places feet flat on floor with hips at 90 degrees
  • Bed assist handle or grab rail present at mattress edge
  • Nightlight on path from bed to door, auto-activating
  • Phone reachable from bed without standing
  • Medications stored securely but accessibly
  • No loose rugs between bed and bathroom
  • Closet items organized to eliminate overhead reaching for daily-use clothing
  • Adequate lighting for dressing without shadows
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors functional

Staircase (If Present)

  • Handrail present on both sides of staircase for full length of run
  • Both handrails are securely anchored — no wobble
  • Stair surfaces have adequate traction (non-slip nosing on each step if hardwood or tile)
  • No carpet runner that is worn, buckled, or loose
  • Adequate lighting at top and bottom of staircase, with switches at both ends
  • No items stored on stairs (even temporarily)
  • Stair lift evaluated if individual has difficulty managing stairs independently

Laundry Area

  • Washer and dryer accessible without significant bending or reaching (front-loading on pedestal preferred for individuals with mobility limitations)
  • Path to laundry area is clear and well-lit
  • Laundry detergent and supplies within easy reach
  • No wet floors after laundry use

General Throughout the Home

  • Smoke detectors on every level of the home — tested within the last 6 months
  • Carbon monoxide detector present near sleeping areas
  • Emergency contacts posted visibly (near phone or on refrigerator)
  • Personal emergency response system (PERS device) worn consistently
  • All medications organized and current — expired medications removed
  • Temperature in all rooms maintained at 68°F or above
  • All exterior and interior locks operable without fine motor coordination

After the Assessment

Use the findings from this checklist to prioritize modifications. Address bathroom and staircase hazards first. Items that require no cost (removing rugs, rerouting cords, reorganizing storage) should be addressed immediately.

For families in Hartford County who need help identifying the right level of in-home support — beyond what environmental modifications can provide — Connecticut Caring Companions provides non-medical home care informed by RN oversight.

Call: (860) 812-0332 Email: care@ctcaringcompanions.com Website: www.ctcaringcompanions.com