A PRACTICAL TOOL FOR YOUR FAMILY

A safer-home checklist.

Walk through together. Note what needs attention.
Give each next step an owner and a follow-up date.

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Aging in Place Guide · Home checklist

Family walk-through date: ___________________ · Follow-up date: ___________________

Make this a conversation.

Ask your parent what feels awkward and get their agreement before moving things. Record anything that needs professional assessment rather than testing a risky movement.

Floors & everyday pathways

Everyday walking routes are clear of bags, shoes, boxes, and loose cords.

Walk the routes your parent actually uses. Agree on new storage locations together.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Loose rugs, curling corners, and changes in floor level have been checked.

Record problem locations; discuss removing loose rugs or getting a suitable floor covering assessed.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

There is a practical way to deal with spills promptly.

Keep cleaning supplies accessible without creating another obstruction.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Pet bowls, toys, and beds sit outside walking routes.

Choose a consistent place that works for your parent and pet.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Bathroom

Bathroom floors and the bath or shower surface have been checked for slipping hazards.

Look for water, loose mats, and damaged surfaces. Ask a professional about appropriate slip-resistant options.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

The need for properly installed grab bars has been discussed.

Towel rails are not grab bars. Get advice about placement, wall construction, and secure installation.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Frequently used toiletries and towels are within comfortable reach.

Move essentials with permission, without narrowing the walking route.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Any difficulty entering the shower or using the toilet is recorded for professional advice.

Do not test a difficult transfer just to complete this checklist.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Bedroom & nighttime route

The route from bed to bathroom has usable lighting.

Check from the bed and from both ends of the route; avoid glare and shadows.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

The floor beside the bed and the bathroom route are clear.

Check slippers, charging cables, bedding, and furniture edges.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

A light switch or lamp can be reached before getting out of bed.

Check its location with your parent; secure any cord away from the route.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Your parent has an agreed way to contact someone for help.

Check phone access and the household response plan. A device is only useful if someone can respond.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Stairs & entrances

Stairs, steps, and entrances are clear of stored items.

Find a storage spot away from steps for mail, parcels, and shoes.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Handrails and step surfaces have been checked for loose or damaged parts.

Arrange professional repairs; do not use an unstable rail as support.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Steps and landings can be seen clearly in the lighting normally used.

Check after dark as well as during the day.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

The outside approach has been checked for uneven surfaces, water, and seasonal hazards.

Record repairs or maintenance needed; do not ask your parent to demonstrate a risky route.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Kitchen & living spaces

Frequently used items are stored without needing to climb or overreach.

Ask which items your parent uses daily before reorganizing cupboards.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Main rooms have working, accessible lights without obvious glare.

Check furniture shadows and failed bulbs along everyday routes.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Any difficulty getting into or out of a usual chair is noted for assessment.

Do not assume a furniture riser or different chair will solve the problem without checking suitability.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Family follow-up

Your parent has had a say in which changes happen first.

Ask what feels awkward or worrying and record their priorities.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Falls, near-falls, or new concerns about balance have been noted for a clinician.

This checklist is not a clinical fall-risk assessment; do not change medicines yourself.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

Each unresolved issue has an owner and a follow-up date.

Use the action notes below and revisit after changes are made.

To check

Action notes & follow-up

Next stepOwnerFollow-up date

What this checklist can—and cannot—do

This is a household planning worksheet, not a clinical fall-risk assessment or a guarantee against falls. It does not replace an occupational therapist's home assessment or advice from your parent's healthcare team. Discuss falls, near-falls, and new balance concerns with a clinician.

Safety guidance is informed by CDC STEADI resources and the National Institute on Aging's room-by-room guidance. Our action-planning fields are an original family workflow.

Independent educational tool. No individual clinical review. Updated October 15, 2026.