A Home Safety Checklist for Older People Living Independently

Most injuries to older people happen at home, and most of them happen in a handful of predictable places: the bathroom, the stairs, the kitchen and the route to the toilet at night. The good news is that these hazards are easy to find once you know what to look for, and most fixes cost very little. Walk through the home with this checklist, ideally with a family member or friend, and tick off what is already in place.

Bathroom

The bathroom is the single most dangerous room in the house because it combines water, hard surfaces and getting up and down.

• Non-slip mat inside the shower or bath, and a non-slip bath mat on the floor.
• Grab rails beside the toilet and in the shower, screwed into the wall, not suction cups.
• A shower chair or stool if standing for the length of a shower is tiring.
• Hand-held shower head so washing can be done seated.
• Hot water set to a safe temperature to prevent scalds.
• Toiletries within easy reach without bending or stretching.

Kitchen

• Everyday items stored between waist and shoulder height, so there is no need for step stools or deep bending.
• Clear bench space near the stove for hot pots.
• A kettle that switches off automatically and is light enough to lift when full.
• Medications kept in one labelled place, with a weekly dosette box if there are several.
• A working smoke alarm on the ceiling nearby, tested monthly.
• Spills wiped up straight away and a non-slip mat in front of the sink.

Living areas and hallways

• Loose rugs removed or fixed down with non-slip backing.
• Cords and cables run along walls, never across walkways.
• Furniture arranged so there is a clear path through each room.
• Chairs with arms and a firm seat, high enough to stand up from easily.
• Bright, even lighting with switches at both ends of hallways.
• Sensor night lights along the route from bed to bathroom.

Entrances, steps and outdoors

• A handrail on both sides of any steps, inside and out.
• Step edges marked with contrasting tape if they are hard to see.
• A sturdy ramp if a wheelchair or walker is used.
• Outdoor lighting at the front door and along paths.
• Paths kept clear of moss, leaves and loose pavers.
• A key safe or doorbell camera so help can get in if needed.

Personal safety

• A personal alarm pendant or a phone kept within reach, including in the bathroom.
• Firm, closed-heel shoes worn indoors rather than slippers or socks.
• Glasses checked yearly, and single-vision glasses for walking if bifocals are worn.
• A list of emergency contacts on the fridge.

Getting modifications funded

Grab rails, ramps, improved lighting and bathroom changes are all recognised home modifications. Under Support at Home, the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications scheme funds equipment and minor modifications after an occupational therapist assesses the home. NDIS participants can have the same work funded through their plan. An occupational therapist writes the recommendation, and the modifications are then installed by an approved tradesperson.

Need help with the walk-through?

Avida Care’s occupational therapists carry out in-home safety assessments across Australia, arrange minor modifications and help you access funding through Support at Home or the NDIS. Call 0477 399 714 or 0421 986 841, or contact us to book an assessment.