Home Safety Checklist

How to Use This Checklist

Go room by room and check off each item that is already in place. Unchecked items are your priority list — not everything needs to happen today, but each unchecked box represents a concrete, fixable risk. For the reasoning behind dementia-specific items (like wandering prevention), see our companion guide, Home Safety for Memory Care.

Entryways & Hallways

• ☐ Throw rugs and loose mats removed or secured with non-slip backing
• ☐ Hallways well-lit, including night lights for nighttime movement
• ☐ Handrails installed on both sides of any stairs
• ☐ Stair edges marked with high-contrast tape
• ☐ Cords and cables cleared from walking paths

Kitchen

• ☐ Stove has a knob cover or automatic shut-off if needed
• ☐ Hazardous items (chemicals, sharp objects) secured or relocated if judgment has declined
• ☐ Frequently used items within easy, safe reach (avoid step stools)
• ☐ Fire extinguisher present and accessible

Bathroom

• ☐ Grab bars installed near toilet and in shower/tub
• ☐ Non-slip mat inside and outside tub/shower
• ☐ Water heater set to 120°F or lower
• ☐ Raised toilet seat installed if needed
• ☐ Nightlight present for nighttime use

Bedroom

• ☐ Clear, well-lit path from bed to bathroom
• ☐ Bed height appropriate for safe transfers
• ☐ Phone or call device within reach of the bed
• ☐ Nightlight or accessible light switch within reach

Living Areas

• ☐ Clutter minimized throughout main walking paths
• ☐ Furniture arranged with clear, wide pathways
• ☐ Sturdy furniture available for support when standing/sitting
• ☐ Pet hazards (bowls, toys, leashes) kept out of walkways

Emergency Access

• ☐ Emergency contact list posted visibly (refrigerator or by phone)
• ☐ Medical alert device available and worn/used consistently
• ☐ House number visible from the street for emergency responders
• ☐ A neighbor or nearby contact aware of the household's situation

Scoring & Next Steps

Count your unchecked items. 0–3 unchecked: Your home is well-prepared — recheck every 6 months or after any change in condition. 4–8 unchecked: Prioritize bathroom and bedroom items first, since these carry the highest fall risk. 9+ unchecked: Consider requesting a formal in-home safety evaluation from an occupational therapist, often available through home health services or covered in part by Medicare in certain circumstances — ask your physician for a referral.