Home Safety Checklist For Seniors

Floors

• Ensure walkways between rooms are clear of obstacles
• Remove rugs or use double-sided tape/non-slip backing
• Store loose items such as books, shoes and boxes off floor area
• Secure loose telephone and electrical wires

Stairs

• Remove loose items "stored" on stairs
• Repair uneven or broken steps
• Replace/install adequate lighting if necessary, with switch at top and bottom of staircase
• Ensure carpet is securely attached; repair rips
• Fix loose handrails and install a second handrail if absent
• Paint top edge of stair a contrasting color

Kitchen

• Move commonly used items to lower shelves (at waist height)
• Use stable step stool (with bar to hold) if it is necessary to climb to reach higher shelves

Bathrooms

• Remove rugs or use double-sided tape/non-slip backing
• Install non-slip appliqués on floor of shower
• Install grab bars inside shower and next to toilet
• Secure heavy duty towel racks using large anchor bolts
• Store bathing items such as soap and shampoo within easy reach (waist height)
• Equip toilet with elevated seat and/or grab bars
• Consider upgrading bathtub to a walk in tub

Bedroom

• Place lamp within easy reach of bed
• Use nightlight to illuminate area between bed and bathroom

General Guidelines

• Exercise regularly, to the best of your ability
• Ensure your doctor and pharmacist know all medications you are taking
• Get your eyes checked every year
• Get up slowly after sitting or lying down
• Wear shoes with good treads, not slippers, both inside and outside the house
• Add lights to dark spots, inside and outside the house
• List emergency numbers in large print near phones
• Consider an emergency alert device

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