Senior Home Solutions

Resource · Fall Prevention

Fall prevention checklist

Most falls happen at home, and most are preventable. This room-by-room checklist shows the family what to fix tonight, what to fix soon, and what to monitor, with the CDC's fall-prevention resources and the local Area Agency on Aging as trusted references.

A bright, decluttered hallway in an older adult's home with a non-slip runner, a wall-mounted grab rail, and a night light

The Checklist

Room by room, with priorities

Work through the home one room at a time. Mark each item as done, soon, or monitor, and bring the completed checklist to us for the professional assessment.

Everywhere · The Whole Home

  • Remove or secure all loose rugs and runners, or use non-slip backing.
  • Clear walking paths of cords, clutter, and furniture that blocks the way.
  • Add night lights in every hallway and along the path to the bathroom.
  • Replace dim bulbs and add lamps where shadows fall.
  • Keep a flashlight within reach of the bed and the favorite chair.
  • Check that every stair has a sturdy railing on at least one side, ideally both.
  • Mark the top and bottom of stairs with contrasting tape or paint.

Bathroom · The Highest-Risk Room

  • Install grab bars in the tub, shower, and beside the toilet, anchored into structure.
  • Use non-slip mats or adhesive strips in the tub and shower.
  • Add a shower chair or transfer bench for bathing seated.
  • Raise the toilet or add a raised seat if transfers are difficult.
  • Keep the floor dry and clean up spills immediately.
  • Keep toiletries within easy reach so nothing requires bending or stretching.

Kitchen & Living Areas

  • Store everyday items between knee and shoulder height, no high shelves or low cabinets.
  • Use a sturdy step stool only if needed, and keep it out of the walkway.
  • Wipe up spills and grease on the floor right away.
  • Choose chairs that are easy to get out of, with arms and a stable base.
  • Keep remote controls, phones, and glasses within reach of the favorite chair.
  • Keep pets' bowls, toys, and beds out of the walking paths.

Bedroom & Stairs

  • Keep a clear path from the bed to the door and the bathroom.
  • Place a lamp and a phone within reach of the bed.
  • Consider a bed rail or a lower bed if getting in and out is difficult.
  • Repair loose stair treads and replace worn carpet on stairs.
  • Never carry items up or down stairs with both hands full.
  • If stairs are a daily barrier, talk to us about a stairlift or a first-floor plan.

Beyond the Home

The person matters as much as the house

Fall risk is not only environmental. Vision, balance, medication, footwear, and physical strength all contribute. The checklist covers the home; the professional assessment covers the person.

  • Have vision checked. Updated glasses reduce fall risk significantly.
  • Review medications. Ask the pharmacist or physician about dizziness and balance side effects.
  • Wear well-fitting shoes. At home too; slippers without backs are a classic fall cause.
  • Stay active. Balance and strength programs reduce fall risk. Ask about local programs.

Trusted References

Your local Area Agency on Aging offers fall prevention programs and support:

Checked the checklist? Bring it to us.

The professional home safety assessment turns the checklist into a prioritized plan. Start with the needs assessment, or talk to us directly.

Start the Needs Assessment Talk to Us