Home Safety Checklist for Seniors

Remove all loose rugs and mats, or secure them with non-slip backing

Clear all walkways and hallways of clutter, furniture, and electrical cords

Install nightlights in every room, hallway, and staircase

Ensure all stairways have sturdy handrails on both sides

Check that all doors open and close easily — no sticking or difficult handles

Ensure phone or emergency call device is accessible from multiple rooms

Store emergency numbers (doctor, pharmacy, poison control) in a visible place

Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working

Review lighting — replace dim bulbs with brighter ones throughout

Consider a medical alert system (e.g. LifeAlert) if living alone

Install grab bars beside the toilet — not towel bars, which are not weight-bearing

Install grab bars inside and outside the shower or tub

Place non-slip mat inside the shower/tub and on the bathroom floor

Consider a shower chair or bench for those with balance issues

Set water heater to 120°F or below to prevent scalding

Ensure toilet seat is at a comfortable height — raised toilet seat if needed

Keep frequently used items within easy reach — no climbing or reaching high

Ensure bathroom door can be opened from the outside in an emergency

Move frequently used items to easy-reach shelves (waist to shoulder height)

Install a stove knob cover or automatic shut-off device if stove use is unsafe

Keep a fire extinguisher accessible and ensure your loved one knows how to use it

Ensure adequate lighting over work surfaces and the stovetop

Remove or secure step stools — falls from step stools are common and serious

Consider an automatic kettle or single-serve coffee maker to reduce burn risk

Keep the floor dry — place a non-slip mat in front of the sink

Label food clearly with dates if your loved one has memory concerns

Ensure a clear, unobstructed path from the bed to the bathroom

Place a nightlight on the path from the bed to the bathroom

Bed should be at a height that allows feet to rest flat on the floor when sitting

Keep a phone or call device within reach from the bed

Ensure medications are clearly labeled and stored safely

Remove or secure any furniture with sharp corners near the bed

Consider bed rails if fall risk from bed is a concern

Ensure windows have secure latches — especially for those with dementia

Install door alarms or chimes on all exit doors to alert when opened

Consider door knob covers or deadbolts at eye level to deter wandering

Remove or secure stove controls if cooking is no longer safe

Lock medications, cleaning products, and sharp objects in secured cabinets

Consider a GPS tracker device or ID bracelet in case of wandering

Label rooms clearly with pictures if the person gets disoriented

Cover mirrors if the person becomes distressed by their reflection

Reduce visual complexity — remove clutter, busy patterns that can cause confusion