Walk-in showers
If feasible, a walk-in shower with minimal threshold is safer than baths. Combined with a fold-down seat and hand-held showerhead, it allows independence and safety.
Home Safety Checklist for Elderly: Room-by-Room Guide
A comprehensive guide to identifying and eliminating hazards around the home to keep elderly relatives safe from falls and injuries.
1 in 4
Adults aged 65+ experience falls annually
80%
Of falls are preventable with home safety measures
£2.3bn
Annual NHS cost of falls in people over 65
60%
Of homes have significant safety hazards
Why Home Safety Matters
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma and hospital admissions for older people. Yet most falls are preventable. Between 80 and 90% of fall-related injuries can be avoided through simple home modifications, improved lighting, assistive equipment, and regular safety checks.
A single fall can change everything. Beyond the immediate injury, falls often lead to loss of confidence, reduced independence, prolonged hospital stays, and potentially permanent residential care. The emotional impact on families is profound as well.
Creating a safe home environment is not about restricting freedom or making a home feel clinical. It is about removing unnecessary hazards so your elderly relative can remain independent, confident, and comfortable in the place they love most. This checklist provides a practical, room-by-room approach to home safety.
Kitchen Safety
The kitchen is a high-risk area for falls and injuries. Slippery floors, hot appliances, and reachable items create multiple hazards. A safe kitchen is one where everything is accessible without stretching or bending, floors are dry and non-slip, and appliances are used safely.
Temperature control
Mark hot taps to prevent scalding. Use thermostatic mixing valves to regulate water temperature automatically.
Clear floor space
Remove clutter, towels, and personal items from the bathroom floor. Keep a waste bin within reach but not in the path.
Raised toilet seats
A raised toilet seat or toilet frame with armrests makes standing easier and reduces strain on knees and hips. Add grab rails on each side for additional support.
Ventilation
Ensure good ventilation to reduce humidity and steam, which creates slippery surfaces. An extractor fan should run for 20 minutes after showering.
Lighting
Install bright, shadow-free lighting, especially around the bath and toilet. Consider a nightlight or motion-sensor light for night-time visits.
Bedroom Safety
A safe bedroom enables good sleep and safe movement during the night when falls are common. Elderly people often need to use the toilet at night, so the bedroom and the route to the bathroom must be hazard-free.
Bed height
The bed should be at a height where feet touch the ground when sitting on the edge. Too high or too low increases fall risk when getting in or out. Adjustable beds can be raised to the correct height. Use bed rails only if specifically recommended by an occupational therapist, as inappropriate use can increase fall risk.
Clear pathways
Create a clear route from bed to bedroom door and to the bathroom. Remove rugs, furniture edges that protrude, and electrical cords.
Slippers with grip
Non-slip soles on bedroom slippers reduce the risk of sliding on smooth floors or tiles.
Firm mattress
A medium-firm mattress is safer than a soft one, as it reduces the effort needed to stand up.
Lighting
Install a bedside lamp within easy reach. Use motion-sensor lights along the pathway to the bathroom and on the stairs to provide light automatically when needed at night.
Emergency items
Keep a mobile phone, a torch, and a personal alarm by the bed in case of falls or emergencies at night.
Smoke alarm
Install a working smoke alarm in or near the bedroom. Test monthly and replace batteries annually. For deaf or hard of hearing relatives, consider a vibrating alarm.
Living Room and Hallways
Living rooms and hallways are transition spaces where falls commonly occur during movement between rooms. Removing trip hazards and improving visibility is critical.
Remove rugs and mats
Loose rugs are trip hazards. If rugs are important for comfort, secure them with non-slip rug underlays or use fitted carpets instead.
Clutter control
Regularly remove magazines, newspapers, books, and other items from floors, side tables, and hallways. Even small items underfoot can cause a trip.
Adequate lighting
Ensure hallways are well-lit from end to end. Avoid dark corners. Use nightlights in hallways and near doorways. Install motion-sensor lights that automatically illuminate when movement is detected.
Furniture placement
Arrange furniture to create clear, wide pathways. Do not block doorways or force movement around obstacles. Furniture should not have sharp corners at head or shin height.
Electrical safety
Keep electrical cords against walls using cord covers or tape. Avoid trailing wires across walkways.
Stair landing safety
The landing at the top and bottom of stairs should be clear and well-lit. Install a handrail on the landing if not already present.
Flooring
Avoid highly polished floors that become slippery. If necessary, use non-slip floor polish or place non-slip mats in high-traffic areas.
Stairway Safety
Stairs present a significant fall risk. Older people are at particular risk because balance changes, vision declines, and strength decreases affect stair negotiation. Proper equipment and home adaptations are essential.
Handrails
Install sturdy handrails on at least one side (ideally both) of the staircase. Handrails should be 32-38mm in diameter, smooth and continuous, extending from the bottom to the top step. At least 50mm of space should exist between the handrail and the wall for grip.
Stair edge marking
Apply contrasting tape or paint to the front edge of each step to improve visibility, particularly the first and last steps.
Stairlifts
For those with significant mobility difficulties, a stairlift is a practical solution allowing independent use of stairs. Modern stairlifts are compact, quiet, and can be folded away when not in use. A curved stairlift can navigate L-shaped stairs.
Step-free access
If possible, design the home to allow access to frequently used areas without climbing stairs. A downstairs bedroom or bathroom may be necessary as mobility declines.
Stair lighting
Install bright lighting at the top and bottom of stairs and on the landing. Ensure there are no shadows cast across steps. Consider motion-sensor lights for night-time safety.
Carpet condition
Ensure stair carpet is in good condition, firmly fixed, and not worn smooth. Replace worn carpet promptly.
Stair gates
At the top of stairs, a baby gate or safety gate prevents accidental falls, particularly useful if cognitive decline is present or if a person is confused at night.
Tips
Test handrails thoroughly before installation. They must support your full weight without flexing or moving. If you are unsure, hire a professional installer.
Fire Safety
Elderly people are at higher risk of death and injury in fires because they may not hear alarms, may move slowly, and may have difficulty escaping. Comprehensive fire safety is essential.
Smoke alarms
Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and near bedrooms. Test monthly. Replace batteries annually (use calendar reminders). For deaf or hard of hearing relatives, use alarms with strobe lights and bed vibrators.
Fire blanket
Keep a fire blanket in the kitchen for small grease fires. It should be easily accessible but not directly next to the cooker (you need to approach from the side to avoid flames).
Electrical safety
Do not overload sockets. Use socket extenders with on-off switches. Ensure old appliances are regularly checked for safety. Do not use extension leads as a permanent solution.
Heating appliances
Keep heaters, fires, and radiators away from curtains, bedding, and upholstered furniture. Do not use portable heaters in bedrooms unattended.
Escape plan
Develop and practise an escape plan. Know two ways to exit each room. Identify a meeting place outside the home. Practise the plan regularly.
Fire extinguishers
Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen rated for grease and electrical fires. Ensure your relative knows it is there but encourage calling the fire service rather than fighting a fire.
Cooker safety
Turn off the hob when unattended. Use the back rings first. Keep a close eye on cooking. Consider a cooker guard if safety is a concern.
Safe storage
Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of reach. Do not use candles unattended or in rooms where someone sleeps.
Remember
In a fire, evacuate immediately. Do not attempt to save possessions. Close doors behind you to slow the spread of fire and smoke. Call the fire service from outside.
Technology for Home Safety
Modern technology offers practical solutions to enhance home safety and provide peace of mind. These tools allow your elderly relative to maintain independence whilst ensuring help is available if needed.
Personal alarms
Wearable devices (worn as a pendant or wristband) allow immediate contact with a response centre or designated contacts with one button press. Suitable for anyone living alone or at risk of falling. Some detect falls automatically.
Telecare and telehealth systems
Remote monitoring systems that alert carers or family to unusual activity patterns. Bed sensors detect if someone has not got up by a certain time. Pressure mats alert to night-time wandering.
Motion sensors and nightlights
Passive infrared sensors detect movement and automatically trigger lights, reducing fall risk during night-time visits to the toilet.
Smart lighting
Voice-controlled or remote-controlled lighting allows turning lights on without getting out of bed or walking in the dark. Timed lighting gradually increases at set times to help with waking.
Video doorbells
Allow viewing who is at the door before answering. Safer than opening doors to unknown visitors.
Medication dispensers
Automated dispensers remind your relative when to take medication and alert you if they have not taken their tablets. Reduces medication errors and missed doses.
Temperature sensors
Alerts if the house becomes too hot or cold, preventing risk from heat exhaustion or hypothermia.
Key safes
Secure wall-mounted boxes hold a spare key, allowing carers and emergency services access without requiring your relative to answer the door. Access codes can be changed regularly.
Video cameras
Discreet cameras in living areas allow carers or family to check on wellbeing remotely. Always ensure privacy and obtain consent
Cost-Effective Tip
Many local councils offer subsidised or free telecare equipment for people with eligible needs. Ask your occupational therapist or contact adult social services to explore what is available locally.
Getting Professional Help
Creating a safe home is not something you need to do alone. Several professionals can assess your home and recommend appropriate modifications and equipment.
Occupational Therapists
An occupational therapist (OT) is a specialist trained to assess how someone manages daily activities at home and to recommend adaptations and equipment to maintain independence and safety. They can conduct a thorough home assessment, identify specific hazards, and recommend tailored solutions.
Adaptations and Funding
Disabled Facilities Grant
In England, a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) provides funding (up to GBP 30,000) towards the cost of home adaptations like ramps, grab rails, and bathroom modifications. Your local council administers the grant. An occupational therapist will assess your needs and recommend work. Eligibility is means-tested based on your savings and income.
Local Authority Grants and Support
Many councils offer small grants for essential safety items like grab rails, smoke alarms, and toilet seats. Contact your local council's adult social care team to ask what is available in your area.
Charitable Organisations
Organisations such as Age UK, Foundations, and the British Red Cross can assist with small adaptations and emergency repairs. Some offer funding, tool loans, or volunteer handyperson services
Living Plus Care Services Assessments
We offer comprehensive home safety assessments as part of our care services. Our team can identify hazards, recommend equipment, liaise with occupational therapists, and help coordinate professional installation. This assessment is free and helps us develop a personalised care plan for your relative.
The Complete Room-by-Room Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist when conducting a home safety audit. Work through each room methodically, ticking items as you address them. Print this section and carry it as you walk through the home; make notes about any specific hazards you discover.
KITCHEN SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Non-slip mats under sink and cooker | ||
| Spill-free pathway to key areas | ||
| Bright, shadow-free lighting over worktops | ||
| Frequently used items at waist-shoulder height | ||
| Back rings of hob used first; handles turned in | ||
| Fire blanket located (not next to cooker) | ||
| Kettle on stable, heat-resistant surface | ||
| Boiler thermostat set to 49 degrees C | ||
| Appliance cords secured; no trailing wires | ||
| Flooring is slip-resistant | ||
| Cupboards labelled clearly |
BATHROOM SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Grab rails installed both sides of toilet | ||
| Grab rails installed in shower or bath | ||
| Non-slip bath mat with suction cups | ||
| Non-slip strips on shower floor | ||
| Shower seat present and stable | ||
| Raised toilet seat with armrests | ||
| Clear floor space; no clutter | ||
| Bright lighting; no dark corners | ||
| Ventilation adequate; extractor fan working | ||
| Hot water temperature regulated | ||
| Nightlight or motion sensor light installed |
BEDROOM SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Bed at correct height (feet touch ground) | ||
| Firm mattress (not too soft) | ||
| Clear pathway from bed to door | ||
| Clear pathway from bed to bathroom | ||
| Bedside lamp within easy reach | ||
| Motion-sensor lights on landing and bathroom path | ||
| Non-slip slippers readily available | ||
| Mobile phone by bed | ||
| Torch by bed for night-time use | ||
| Personal alarm by bed | ||
| Working smoke alarm in or near bedroom |
LIVING ROOM AND HALLWAYS SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Loose rugs removed or secured | ||
| Furniture arranged for clear pathways | ||
| Doorways not blocked | ||
| No magazines, books, or items on floor | ||
| Electrical cords against wall or covered | ||
| Good lighting throughout hallways | ||
| Nightlights in hallways and near doors | ||
| Motion-sensor lights installed | ||
| Stair landing clear and well-lit | ||
| Flooring is slip-resistant (not highly polished) |
STAIRWAY SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Handrail on at least one side (both is better) | ||
| Handrail 32-38mm diameter, smooth and continuous | ||
| 50mm space between handrail and wall | ||
| Bright lighting at top and bottom of stairs | ||
| No shadows cast across steps | ||
| Contrasting tape on step edges (first and last) | ||
| Stair carpet in good condition and firmly fixed | ||
| Stairlift installed (if needed) | ||
| Safety gate at top of stairs (if needed) | ||
| Second floor bedroom or bathroom accessible |
GARDEN AND EXTERNAL AREAS SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Pathways firm, even, and well-maintained | ||
| Cracks and subsidence repaired | ||
| No loose paving or cobbles | ||
| Motion-sensor lights along pathways | ||
| Dusk to dawn lights around garden | ||
| Steps clearly marked with contrasting colour | ||
| Handrails on steps and slopes | ||
| Protruding roots and branches removed | ||
| Uneven surfaces levelled | ||
| Sturdy seating provided and secured | ||
| Tools and garden equipment stored securely | ||
| Fallen leaves and snow cleared promptly |
FIRE SAFETY CHECKLIST
| Item to Check | Status | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Smoke alarm on every level | ||
| Smoke alarms near bedrooms | ||
| Alarms tested monthly | ||
| Batteries replaced annually | ||
| Strobe alarms for deaf relatives | ||
| Escape plan developed and practised | ||
| Two exits per room identified | ||
| Fire blanket in kitchen (not next to cooker) | ||
| Fire extinguisher in kitchen (grease and electrical) | ||
| Electrical sockets not overloaded | ||
| Heaters kept away from flammable items | ||
| Candles used only when supervised |
Need Help Creating a Safe Home?
Our care team can conduct a comprehensive home safety assessment and help identify hazards specific to your relative. We provide practical recommendations and can coordinate with occupational therapists and adaptations services.
Request Free Home Safety Assessment: www.livingpluscare.co.uk/contact