Elder Safety & Independence Checklist
Comprehensive safety measures to help seniors maintain independence while staying safe at home and in the community.
Safety Priority Notice
Falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors. Regular safety assessments and home modifications can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and help maintain independence longer.
Home Safety Assessment
Critical
Essential home safety modifications and checks
Fall Prevention
- ☐ Remove or secure loose rugs and carpets
- ☐ Install grab bars in bathrooms
- ☐ Add non-slip mats in tub/shower
- ☐ Ensure adequate lighting throughout home
- ☐ Install handrails on both sides of stairs
- ☐ Clear walkways of clutter and obstacles
- ☐ Repair loose floorboards or tiles
- ☐ Use night lights in hallways and bathrooms
Bathroom Safety
- ☐ Install raised toilet seat if needed
- ☐ Add shower chair or bench
- ☐ Install hand-held shower head
- ☐ Ensure bathroom door opens outward
- ☐ Keep medications organized and labeled
- ☐ Install emergency call system
Kitchen Safety
- ☐ Store frequently used items at accessible heights
- ☐ Install automatic shut-off for stove
- ☐ Use lever-style door handles and faucets
- ☐ Ensure good lighting over work areas
- ☐ Keep fire extinguisher accessible
- ☐ Install easy-to-reach smoke detectors
General Home Safety
- ☐ Install motion-sensor lighting outdoors
- ☐ Ensure doorways are at least 32 inches wide
- ☐ Install ramps where needed
- ☐ Check and maintain heating/cooling systems
- ☐ Install carbon monoxide detectors
- ☐ Secure loose electrical cords
Emergency Preparedness
Essential
Emergency systems and communication planning
Emergency Response Systems
- ☐ Medical alert system (pendant or wristband)
- ☐ Cell phone with large buttons and emergency contacts
- ☐ Landline phone as backup
- ☐ Emergency contact list posted by phones
- ☐ Medication list and medical information accessible
- ☐ Key lockbox for emergency responders
Communication Plan
- ☐ Daily check-in system with family/friends
- ☐ Neighbor contact for emergencies
- ☐ Healthcare provider contact information
- ☐ Pharmacy and medication delivery contacts
- ☐ Transportation service contacts
- ☐ Utility company emergency numbers
Emergency Supplies
- ☐ 7-day supply of medications
- ☐ Emergency food and water (3-day minimum)
- ☐ Flashlights and extra batteries
- ☐ Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- ☐ First aid kit with senior-specific items
- ☐ Important documents in waterproof container
Technology for Safety
- ☐ Smart home devices for monitoring
- ☐ Medication reminder systems
- ☐ Video calling setup for family contact
- ☐ GPS tracking device if needed
- ☐ Smart doorbell with camera
- ☐ Automatic pill dispensers
Personal Safety & Security
Personal safety measures and security precautions
Personal Safety
- ☐ Wear appropriate footwear with good support
- ☐ Use mobility aids as recommended
- ☐ Carry identification and medical information
- ☐ Stay hydrated and maintain regular meals
- ☐ Exercise regularly to maintain strength and balance
- ☐ Have regular vision and hearing checkups
- ☐ Review medications with doctor regularly
- ☐ Avoid alcohol with medications
Home Security
- ☐ Install deadbolt locks on exterior doors
- ☐ Use peephole or security camera at front door
- ☐ Keep doors and windows locked
- ☐ Install motion-sensor lights outside
- ☐ Trim bushes near windows and doors
- ☐ Don't give personal information to strangers
- ☐ Be cautious of phone and door-to-door scams
- ☐ Keep emergency numbers easily accessible
Transportation & Community Safety
Safe mobility and community engagement
Driving Safety
- ☐ Regular vision and hearing tests
- ☐ Annual driving assessment
- ☐ Avoid driving at night if vision is impaired
- ☐ Plan routes in advance
- ☐ Keep car well-maintained
- ☐ Consider driving refresher courses
- ☐ Have backup transportation plans
- ☐ Know when to stop driving
Alternative Transportation
- ☐ Research senior transportation services
- ☐ Explore public transportation options
- ☐ Arrange rides with family and friends
- ☐ Consider ride-sharing services
- ☐ Look into medical transport services
- ☐ Plan for grocery and pharmacy delivery
- ☐ Investigate community volunteer drivers
- ☐ Consider moving closer to services
Safety Assessment Schedule
📅
Monthly
Test emergency systems, check smoke detector batteries, review medication organization.
🔍
Quarterly
Comprehensive home safety walk-through, update emergency contacts, review transportation needs.
📋
Annually
Professional safety assessment, update all emergency plans, review insurance coverage.