Home Modification Checklist

Here's a list to get you thinking about home modifications that can help your loved one stay safe at home longer and age in place.

Bathroom

• Install grab bars or safety rails for support when getting in/out of tub/shower – never use towel racks or shower curtain rods instead of grab bars.
• Apply non-slip strips on bathtub and shower floors.
• Use bathmats and rugs with non-skid backings.
• Use an adjustable-height shower seat rather than standing, if necessary.
• Install an adjustable height or handheld showerhead.
• Turn down the water temperature on the hot water heater to 120 degrees to prevent scalding.
• Consider a raised toilet seat or grab bar to make getting up and down easier; make sure toilet paper is in easy reach.
• Avoid locking the bathroom door when bathing to allow quicker access to you in case of a fall.

Bedroom

• Widen or clear pathways through the bedroom – arrange furniture to create open space.
• Make sure all electrical cords have been cleared from paths.
• Place smoke detectors outside of bedrooms on each level of the home.
• Keep a phone with a cord within easy reach of the bed cordless phones aren’t useable when the electricity goes out.
• Post a list of emergency numbers near the phone; include current medications, dates prescribed and the pharmacy phone number.
• Secure rug edges with double-sided tape or get rid of scatter rugs.
• Make sure you can switch on a lamp before leaving bed to illuminate the path to the bathroom.
• If you feel unstable at night or fear falling, carry a cordless phone with you as you move about.
• If a low bed makes it difficult to get up, consider using risers to elevate the bed.

Kitchen

• Don’t wear loose sleeves when cooking.
• Use a timer when cooking or baking so you don’t forget that something is cooking.
• Consider a long handled dustpan/broom combination to reduce bending.
• If you use a rug on the floor in front of the sink, use a rubber-backed mat.
• If you have difficulty reading stove and oven knobs, investigate large-sized controls through vision support organizations.
• Install cupboard door handles that are easy to grasp, such as D-type handles.
• Store frequently used items in easy-to-reach cabinets and on countertops.
• Increase kitchen lighting over task areas such as countertops, stove and sink.
• Have a seated workspace available.
• Create a safe place to rest hot food immediately as you remove it from the microwave.
• Living Room and Throughout the Home

Increase lighting at entryways

• Leave lights on in rooms or hallways that you walk through after dark. (High efficiency bulbs and motion sensors at doorways are economical lighting solutions.)
• Change to lever-type door handles if knobs are difficult to grasp or manipulate.
• Install no step, no trip thresholds at doorways.
• Install peepholes on exterior doors that are the right height for the homeowner.
• Install handles and locks on all windows that are easy to grip at the right height.
• Make sure all railings are sturdy and that handrails are on both sides of all stairs.
• Secure all rug edges with double-sided tape or consider getting rid of scatter rugs.
• If vision problems are a concern, create visual contrast on stair risers with paint or tape.
• Make sure homeowners can see and use climate controls (thermostats, air-conditioning units.)