Home Safety Assessment for Older Adults

18 items · Home · Medium difficulty · 1 hour

Quick home safety checks to help older adults avoid falls and stay independent.

• Walk through each room and note trip hazards

  Scan for rugs, cords, toys, loose thresholds, and uneven floors.

• Clear and secure walking paths

  Keep main routes wide and free of obstacles for safe movement.

• Remove clutter from main walkways

  Store shoes, boxes, and loose items off the floor and out of hallways.

• Secure rugs and loose carpet edges

  Use nonslip pads, double-sided tape, or repair curled edges.

• Check stair safety and handrails

  Look for loose steps, uneven treads, and missing or wobbly rails.

• Repair or install sturdy handrails on all stairways

  Ensure rails are firmly anchored and easy to grasp on both sides.

• Improve lighting in living areas and hallways

  Eliminate dark spots and aim for even, glare-free lighting.

• Replace dim bulbs and add night-lights near bedrooms and bathrooms

  Use brighter bulbs and low-level night lights to aid night movement.

• Make bathrooms safer

  Focus on slip risks, reachable supports, and good lighting.

• Install grab rails beside the toilet and in the shower or tub

  Anchor rails into studs or hire a pro to ensure safe installation.

• Place non-slip mats inside and outside the tub or shower

  Choose mats with strong suction or textured surfaces.

• Install stable shower seating and use a handheld shower head

  Add a bench or secure stool to reduce standing time while bathing.

• Create an emergency contact and response plan

  List emergency numbers, nearby contacts, and where to meet if needed.

• Keep a charged phone and test reachable emergency buttons

  Ensure phones or alert devices are within reach and batteries work.

• Make a current list of all medications

  Include doses, timing, and prescribing clinician for each medicine.

• Review medications with a doctor or pharmacist for dizziness or balance effects

  Ask about interactions and alternative options that lower fall risk.

• Schedule vision and hearing checks

  Book regular eye and ear exams; poor vision or hearing raises fall risk.

• Move frequently used items to waist-to-shoulder level

  Keep everyday things easy to reach to avoid bending or climbing.

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