Home Safety Checklist
A room-by-room
safety audit.
Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over 65 — and most happen at home. Click each item to check it off as you go. Work through it room by room, and revisit every six months as needs change.
Priority:
High — Address within 1 week
Medium — Address within 1 month
Low — Address when possible
All steps have secure, graspable handrails on both sides
High
Exterior steps and walkways are in good repair — no cracks, uneven surfaces, or loose edges
High
Outdoor lighting is adequate — motion-activated lights at entry points
High
There is a place to sit near the front door to put on and remove shoes safely
Medium
Door threshold is flush or ramped — no raised edges to trip on
Medium
Welcome mat is non-slip and securely anchored
Medium
Grab bars installed in the shower/tub and beside the toilet — rated grab bars, not just towel bars
High
Non-slip mat inside the shower or tub, and a bath mat with non-slip backing outside
High
Toilet seat is at a comfortable height — raised toilet seat installed if needed
High
Hot water heater is set to 120°F or lower to prevent scalding
High
Shower chair or bench available for those who need to sit while bathing
Medium
Handheld showerhead installed for flexibility and safety
Medium
Nightlight is present for nighttime bathroom trips
Medium
Medications are stored safely — clearly labeled and away from confusion risk
Low
Bed is at a safe height — easy to get in and out of without climbing or crouching
High
A lamp or light switch is reachable from the bed without getting up
High
Clear, obstacle-free path from bed to bathroom
High
Nightlight or motion-activated lighting along the path to the bathroom
Medium
Phone or call device within reach from the bed
Medium
Area rugs have non-slip backing or are removed entirely
Medium
Clothing and frequently used items are within easy reach — no climbing or stretching needed
Low
All electrical cords are secured against walls — not crossing walkways
High
Furniture is arranged to create clear, wide pathways throughout
High
Area rugs have non-slip backing, secure edges, and are not curled at corners
Medium
Seating is firm and at a height easy to rise from — not too low or too soft
Medium
Lighting is adequate throughout — no dim corners or shadowed pathways
Medium
Clutter is managed — floors are clear of items that could cause tripping
Medium
Pet items — bowls, toys, beds — are kept out of main walkways
Low
Frequently used items are stored at counter height — no reaching overhead or bending low
High
Stove knobs are clearly visible and easy to operate — stove auto-shutoff considered
High
Spills are cleaned immediately — non-slip flooring or mat at the sink
High
Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector present and recently tested
High
Sharp knives and hazardous items stored safely
Medium
Step stool (if needed) has a gripping handle and non-slip feet
Medium
Stair handrails are secure, graspable, and extend the full length of the staircase
High
Stair edges are clearly visible — colored tape or strip used if steps are difficult to distinguish
High
Hallways and stairwells are well-lit, with switches accessible at both ends
High
Stair carpet is secure with no loose edges or worn patches
Medium
Nothing is stored on stairs — even temporarily
Medium
When You Need More Than a Checklist
"Some home safety concerns require professional assessment or modifications. If you are unsure about structural changes like grab bar installation or ramp construction, a licensed occupational therapist can help. Avelis can connect you with trusted local resources."