A room-by-room aging-in-place home safety check

A safer home supports independence. Begin with the areas used every day, correct immediate dangers first, and involve the older adult in decisions about changes.

Entrances, stairs, and hallways

• Check that railings are secure and easy to grip.
• Improve lighting at entrances, stairs, and long hallways.
• Remove clutter, cords, shoes, and other trip hazards from walkways.
• Repair uneven steps and consider whether a ramp or added handrail is needed.

Living areas

• Remove loose rugs or secure carpets firmly to the floor.
• Create a clear walking path around furniture.
• Use chairs that are stable and easy to sit in and rise from.
• Keep phones, glasses, water, and other daily items within reach.

Bathrooms

• Consider grab bars near the toilet and inside the bathing area.
• Use nonslip surfaces where floors may become wet.
• Improve lighting, including a night-light for overnight trips.
• Review whether the person can enter, bathe, toilet, and stand safely.

Bedroom and overnight safety

• Keep a light, phone, and needed items near the bed.
• Create a clear path from the bed to the bathroom.
• Check whether the bed height allows safe transfers.
• Discuss overnight support if confusion, toileting, falls, or wandering are concerns.

Kitchen and daily routines

• Place commonly used items at a safe, reachable height.
• Check whether the stove and appliances are being used safely.
• Watch for spoiled food, skipped meals, or difficulty preparing food.
• Keep medication routines separate from food storage unless instructions say otherwise.

Emergency readiness

Keep emergency contacts easy to find. Make sure the older adult has a charged phone or other way to call for help. Review the plan for severe weather, power loss, fire, falls, and urgent health changes.

Home safety is not a one-time project. Review the home after a fall, hospitalization, new diagnosis, medication change, or change in strength, balance, vision, or memory.