Home Safety Assessment Checklist for Aging in Place

A comprehensive home safety assessment is the first step toward successful aging in place. Use this room-by-room checklist to identify potential hazards and prioritize modifications.

Why Professional Assessment Matters

While this checklist helps you identify obvious issues, certified aging in place specialists are trained to spot hidden dangers you might overlook. Professional assessment also provides prioritized recommendations and cost estimates for modifications.

Bathroom Safety Checklist

The bathroom is the most dangerous room for seniors. Check for:

Essential Safety Features

• ☐ Grab bars installed near toilet (both sides preferred)
• ☐ Grab bars in shower/tub area
• ☐ Non-slip bath mat or textured tub/shower floor
• ☐ Shower seat or bench available
• ☐ Walk-in shower or low-threshold tub entry
• ☐ Handheld shower head with adjustable height
• ☐ Raised toilet seat (17-19" height) or comfort-height toilet
• ☐ Lever-handle faucets instead of knobs
• ☐ Anti-scald protection on water fixtures
• ☐ Adequate lighting (including night light)
• ☐ Non-slip flooring throughout bathroom
• ☐ Storage within easy reach (no high shelves required)
• ☐ Door opens outward or is pocket-style for emergency access

Kitchen Safety Checklist

Accessibility and Safety

• ☐ Frequently used items stored at waist height (15-48")
• ☐ Pull-out shelves or lazy Susans in deep cabinets
• ☐ Lever-handle faucets
• ☐ Adequate task lighting over work surfaces
• ☐ Non-slip flooring
• ☐ Appliances at accessible heights (raised dishwasher, wall oven)
• ☐ Stove with front or side controls (not back-mounted)
• ☐ Fire extinguisher readily accessible
• ☐ Smoke detector functional
• ☐ Clear floor space for mobility aids
• ☐ Knee space under sink if needed

Bedroom Safety Checklist

Sleep and Mobility

• ☐ Bed at appropriate height (not too high or low)
• ☐ Bed rails or support handles if needed
• ☐ Clear pathway to bathroom with night lighting
• ☐ Light switches accessible from bed
• ☐ Phone within reach of bed
• ☐ Flooring free of throw rugs or tripping hazards
• ☐ Closet storage at accessible heights
• ☐ Smoke detector functional
• ☐ Furniture arranged to allow clear walking paths

Stairway Safety Checklist

Critical Fall Prevention

• ☐ Handrails on both sides of stairs
• ☐ Handrails extend beyond top and bottom steps
• ☐ Handrails securely mounted
• ☐ Adequate lighting with switches at top and bottom
• ☐ Stairs free of clutter
• ☐ No loose carpeting on steps
• ☐ Stair edges clearly marked with contrasting tape
• ☐ Non-slip treads on steps
• ☐ Consider stair lift if stairs are difficult

Living Areas Checklist

Daily Living Spaces

• ☐ Furniture arranged for clear walking paths (36" minimum width)
• ☐ All electrical cords secured along walls, not across walkways
• ☐ No throw rugs or all rugs secured with non-slip backing
• ☐ Floor transitions between rooms are level
• ☐ Adequate lighting throughout
• ☐ Light switches at room entries
• ☐ Telephone easily accessible
• ☐ Seating at appropriate height (17-19")
• ☐ Arm rests on chairs for easier standing
• ☐ Remote controls within easy reach

Entryways and Hallways Checklist

Access and Circulation

• ☐ Doorways minimum 32" wide (36" preferred)
• ☐ Lever-style door handles instead of knobs
• ☐ Doormats secured or removed
• ☐ Adequate lighting in all hallways
• ☐ Night lights in hallways
• ☐ Handrails if needed
• ☐ No clutter or obstacles
• ☐ Consider ramps for steps at entries

General Safety Checklist

Whole-Home Considerations

• ☐ Smoke detectors on every level, tested monthly
• ☐ Carbon monoxide detectors installed and functional
• ☐ Fire extinguishers accessible and current
• ☐ Emergency contact numbers posted by phones
• ☐ Medical alert system if living alone
• ☐ Flashlights in multiple locations
• ☐ First aid kit readily accessible
• ☐ Thermostats easily readable and operable

Outdoor Safety Checklist

Exterior Spaces

• ☐ Walkways well-lit
• ☐ Walkways clear of moss, leaves, ice, and snow
• ☐ Walkways and driveways free of cracks and uneven surfaces
• ☐ Handrails on all outdoor steps
• ☐ Non-slip surfaces on porches and decks
• ☐ House numbers visible from street for emergency responders
• ☐ Mailbox accessible without difficult walking

Taking Action on Your Assessment

After completing this checklist, prioritize modifications based on:

1. Safety urgency: Address fall hazards immediately
2. Current limitations: Modify areas causing daily difficulty
3. Future planning: Make changes anticipating declining mobility
4. Budget: Start with low-cost changes, plan for larger projects