Many senior adults prefer to live in
the comfort and familiarity of their own homes whenever possible.
Whether this describes you or someone you care for, review these
checklists to make the home safer and prevent injuries.
Prepare for Regular Emergencies
• Test smoke alarms and replace dead batteries.
• Have a fire extinguisher in the home.
• Plan a simple fire escape route.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector and a fireplace screen.
• Use monitors and intercom systems.
• Buy a phone with large numbers on it for better vision, if applicable.
• Have a fire extinguisher in the home.
• Plan a simple fire escape route.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector and a fireplace screen.
• Use monitors and intercom systems.
• Buy a phone with large numbers on it for better vision, if applicable.
Decrease Potential Fall Hazards
• Clean up spills immediately.
• Polish floors with non-skid wax.
• Put rubber tips on walkers and canes.
• Wear shoes, not just socks, indoors.
• Place non-skid mats inside and outside showers and tubs.
• Install handles and a bench or chair inside showers and tubs.
• Remove rugs and clear away electric cords to avoid tripping.
• Make sure stairways have sufficient lighting.
• Put nightlights in the hallways and bathrooms for midnight toilet trips.
• Install handrails for all steps and stairs, inside and out.
• Keep outside walkways and porches well lit.
• If it snows in the area, have someone clear and salt the sidewalks.
• Polish floors with non-skid wax.
• Put rubber tips on walkers and canes.
• Wear shoes, not just socks, indoors.
• Place non-skid mats inside and outside showers and tubs.
• Install handles and a bench or chair inside showers and tubs.
• Remove rugs and clear away electric cords to avoid tripping.
• Make sure stairways have sufficient lighting.
• Put nightlights in the hallways and bathrooms for midnight toilet trips.
• Install handrails for all steps and stairs, inside and out.
• Keep outside walkways and porches well lit.
• If it snows in the area, have someone clear and salt the sidewalks.
Make Daily Activities Easier
• Keep items on lower shelves.
• Buy a grabbing tool so a step stool is not necessary. When it is needed, buy one with handrails.
• Arrange a table or storage area near the door for putting down items when coming in.
• Wear comfortable, supportive, low-heeled shoes and buy new ones as soon as the soles begin to wear out.
• Buy a grabbing tool so a step stool is not necessary. When it is needed, buy one with handrails.
• Arrange a table or storage area near the door for putting down items when coming in.
• Wear comfortable, supportive, low-heeled shoes and buy new ones as soon as the soles begin to wear out.
Learn more about senior safety and senior home maintenance in Vista.
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