Home Safety
Assessment Checklist
Room-by-Room Safety Evaluation
A comprehensive checklist to identify and address safety hazards in your aging parent's home. Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over 65—most are preventable.
Address Being Assessed:
Assessment Date: _______________
Assessed By: _______________
ParentCareGuide.com
Living Areas & Stairs
🛋️ Living Room & Common Areas
Clear pathways (no furniture or clutter blocking walkways)
At least 3 feet of clearance for walking
OK
Fix
Area rugs removed OR secured with non-slip backing
OK
Fix
Electrical cords tucked away, not across walkways
OK
Fix
Furniture is sturdy (won't tip if used for balance)
OK
Fix
Chair/sofa is the right height (easy to sit and stand)
Consider risers if too low
OK
Fix
TV remote, phone, and frequently used items within reach
OK
Fix
Pet bowls/toys are out of walkways
OK
N/A
🪜 Stairs & Steps
Sturdy handrails on BOTH sides of stairs
Should extend full length of stairs
OK
Fix
Handrails are securely attached (no wobbling)
OK
Fix
Stair carpet is secure (no loose edges)
OK
Fix
Steps are in good condition (not cracked or uneven)
OK
Fix
Contrasting tape on step edges (helps visibility)
OK
Add
Stair lift or elevator if mobility is limited
OK
Consider
💡 Alternative: Single-Floor Living
If stairs are too risky, consider setting up the bedroom and bathroom on the main floor to eliminate stair use entirely.
Bathroom Safety
The bathroom is the most dangerous room for falls. These modifications are essential.
🚿 Shower & Tub
Grab bars installed in shower/tub
Mounted into studs, not with suction cups
OK
Install
Non-slip mat or strips in tub/shower floor
OK
Add
Shower chair or tub transfer bench available
OK
Get
Hand-held shower head installed
OK
Add
Walk-in shower or tub with low threshold (if possible)
OK
Consider
🚽 Toilet
Raised toilet seat if toilet is too low
OK
Get
Toilet paper within easy reach
OK
Fix
🪞 General Bathroom
Non-slip bath mat outside tub/shower
OK
Add
Night light for nighttime bathroom trips
OK
Add
Door can be opened from outside in emergency
OK
Fix
Medications stored safely (locked if dementia)
OK
Fix
Electrical outlets have GFI protection
OK
Check
🚨 Top Bathroom Safety Priorities
- Grab bars - Most important modification for fall prevention
- Non-slip surfaces - In tub AND on floor
- Shower seat - Reduces fatigue and fall risk
- Water temperature - Set heater to 120°F max
Bedroom Safety
🛏️ Bedroom
Light switch or lamp within reach from bed
OK
Fix
Clear path from bed to bathroom
OK
Fix
Night light between bedroom and bathroom
OK
Add
Bed is the right height (easy to get in/out)
Consider bed risers or hospital bed if needed
OK
Fix
Phone and medical alert within reach from bed
OK
Fix
Bed rails if risk of falling out of bed
OK
Consider
Closet items stored at accessible height
OK
Fix
Action Plan
List the priority fixes needed and who will handle them.
| Priority Issue |
Who Will Fix |
Target Date |
Done |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
📞 Professional Help
Consider contacting an occupational therapist for a professional home safety assessment. Many offer free consultations and can recommend specific modifications for your parent's needs.