As we get older, the need to remain safe in our homes increases, and steps need to be taken to make sure injury risks are kept to a minimum. With that in mind, here are questions you should ask to make sure your home is as safe as it can be.
Lighting
• Is the lighting adequate but not glare-producing?
• Are the light switches easy to reach and to turn on?
• Can lights be turned on before entering rooms?
• Are night-lights used in appropriate places?
Hazards
• Are there throw rugs, highly polished floors or other hazardous floor
coverings? If so, where?
Can they be removed or made less hazardous?
• Do area rugs have non slip backing and are the edges tacked to the floor?
• Are cords, clutter or other obstacles in the pathways?
If yes, can they be cleared?
• Are doorways wide enough to accommodate assistive devices?
• Do door thresholds create hazardous conditions?
• How does the person obtain objects from hard to reach places? (chairs can
be hazards)
Furniture
• Are chairs the right height and depth for the individual?
• Do chairs have arm rests?
• Are tables sturdy and will not tip if leaned on?
• Is small furniture placed away from pathways?
Stairways
• Are there light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs?
• Are there securely fastened handrails on both sides of stairs?
• Are all the steps even?
• Should colored tape be used to mark the edges of the steps, particularly
the top and bottom?
Bathroom
• Are grab bars placed appropriately for the tub and toilet?
• Does the tub have skid proof straps or a rubber mat in the bottom?
• Is there a tub or shower seat available?
• Can the shower head be replaced by a hand held shower head?
• Is the height of the toilet appropriate?
Bedroom
• Is the height of the bed appropriate?
• Is the mattress firm enough at the edges to provide enough support for
sitting?
• If the bed has wheels, are they locked securely?
• Would side rails be a help or a hazard?
• When side rails are down, are they completely out of the way?
• Is the pathway between bedroom and bathroom clear of objects and well
lighted at night?
• Would a bedside commode be useful, especially at night?
Kitchen
• Are storage areas used to the best advantage-e.g. frequently used objects in the most accessible places?
• Are appliance cords in good condition and out of the way?
• Are non slip mats used in front of the sink?
• Are the markings on stoves and other appliances clearly visible?
Emergency
• Is an emergency response system available (911)?
• Does the person know how and when to use it?
• Would a private emergency call service be helpful?
• Is the person’s vital information listed in a place where it would be
accessible in an emergency?
Temperature
• Is the temperature comfortable for the person?
• Can the person read the marking on the thermostat and adjust it?
• Is water temperature less than 110 Fahrenheit?
• During hot weather, is there adequate ventilation?
• During cold weather, is the furnace working properly?