| HOME SAFETY OVERVIEW: | | | | Ensure light switches and electrical outlets are easily |
| Ensure the mailbox is easily accessible. | | | | accessible. |
| Doors and windows must be reachable and open | | | | Furniture must provide proper support. |
| easily. | | | | Lift chairs can assist the individual in standing up and |
| Create and review an emergency exit plan for each | | | | sitting down. |
| room in the home. | | | | Provide a table with a phone next to the older person's |
| Ensure working smoke detectors and accessible fire | | | | chair. |
| extinguishers are on each floor of the home. | | | | STAIRWAY SAFETY: |
| Emergency phone numbers (fire, ambulance, doctor) | | | | Make sure the stairway has bright lighting. |
| need to be posted by all phones. | | | | Provide sturdy handrails to assist the individual. |
| Bright lighting is a necessity in every room. | | | | Consider a stair lift if climbing stairs is a problem. |
| Ensure light switches and electrical outlets are easily | | | | Make sure the carpeting on the stairs is intact. |
| accessible. | | | | Place non-skid adhesive strips to non-carpeted stairs. |
| Install nightlights in hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms. | | | | BATHROOM SAFETY: |
| Prevent tripping by removing small rugs, runners, | | | | Make sure the bathroom has bright lighting. |
| electrical cords and phone cords from pathways. | | | | Shower and bath safety can be maximized with the |
| Products such as walkers, canes, grab bars and | | | | use of grab bars, shower chairs and transfer benches. |
| handrails can provide safer mobility. | | | | Place a non-skid mat next to the bathtub and non-skid |
| KITCHEN SAFETY: | | | | adhesive strips on the bottom of the bathtub. |
| Ensure light switches and electrical outlets are easily | | | | Toilet safety can be maximized with the use of grab |
| accessible. | | | | bars, raised toilet seats and toilet safety frames. |
| Provide bright, non-glaring light in kitchen areas. | | | | Ensure light switches and electrical outlets are easily |
| All appliances must be maintained and working | | | | accessible. |
| properly. | | | | BEDROOM SAFETY: |
| Stove controls must be within easy reach. | | | | Make sure the bedroom has bright lighting. |
| Pot holders, dish towels and paper towels (flammable | | | | Ensure light switches and electrical outlets are easily |
| materials) need to be stored away from the stove. | | | | accessible. |
| Shelves, sinks and cabinets may need to be lowered | | | | Remove all obstacles from the pathways. |
| for individuals in wheelchairs. | | | | Beds must be positioned at the correct height so the |
| Ensure dishes, cookware, utensils and silverware are | | | | individual can sit comfortably and rise easily. |
| easily accessible. | | | | Consider a hospital bed with adjustable controls for |
| Provide reachers, extender arms and step stools to | | | | individuals who have mobility difficulties. |
| assist in reaching items that are not accessible. | | | | OUTDOOR SAFETY: |
| LIVING ROOM SAFETY | | | | Provide handrails by the steps. |
| Make sure the room has bright lighting. | | | | Non-skid adhesive strips may be used on the steps. |
| Remove all obstacles from pathways. (rugs, phone | | | | Consider a ramp if the individual has mobility difficulties. |
| cords, electrical cords) | | | | Keep all outdoor pathways clear of obstacles. |