Home Safety Checklist: 25 Fall Hazards Hiding in Your Parent's Home
By Rohit Tamhane, Founder · Updated July 2026 · 8 min read
Over 50% of falls in the elderly happen at home, in the very place that should feel safest. The bathroom, the stairs, the kitchen, even the bedroom harbour hazards that are invisible until someone falls. This room-by-room checklist identifies 25 common hazards and provides the fix for each one.
Walk through your parent's home with this checklist. Each hazard you fix reduces their fall risk.
Bathroom
No grab bars near toilet or shower
Fix: Install grab bars rated for 250+ lbs. Position near toilet (side wall) and inside shower/tub.
Slippery tub or shower floor
Fix: Apply non-slip adhesive strips or place a rubber bath mat with suction cups.
No shower seat
Fix: Add a sturdy shower chair or bench for seated bathing.
Low toilet seat
Fix: Install a raised toilet seat (adds 3-4 inches) to reduce the effort of standing.
Poor lighting
Fix: Add bright lighting. Install a night light for nighttime bathroom visits.
Kitchen
Items stored on high shelves
Fix: Move frequently used items to counter height or lower shelves. Use a stable step stool with a handrail.
Slippery floors
Fix: Use non-slip floor mats near the sink and stove. Clean spills immediately.
Loose rugs or mats
Fix: Remove all loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
Poor lighting over work areas
Fix: Add under-cabinet lighting. Ensure overhead lights illuminate counters and stove clearly.
Bedroom
Bed too low or too high
Fix: Adjust bed height so feet rest flat on the floor when sitting on the edge. Bed risers can help.
No lamp within reach
Fix: Place a lamp or touch-activated light within arm's reach of the bed.
Clutter on floor (shoes, cords, clothing)
Fix: Clear all floor clutter. Use cord organizers. Store shoes in a closet.
Path to bathroom is dark
Fix: Install motion-activated night lights along the path from bed to bathroom.
Stairs & hallways
Missing or loose handrails
Fix: Install sturdy handrails on both sides of all staircases. Tighten any loose rails.
Poor lighting on stairs
Fix: Add bright lighting at the top and bottom of stairs. Light switches should be at both ends.
Clutter on stairs or in hallways
Fix: Keep all stairs and walkways completely clear. Nothing should ever be 'temporarily' placed on stairs.
Worn or loose carpet on stairs
Fix: Repair or replace loose carpet. Consider non-slip stair treads.
No light switches at both ends of hallways
Fix: Install three-way switches or motion-activated hallway lights.
Living room & general
Loose throw rugs
Fix: Remove all throw rugs, or secure with double-sided carpet tape and non-slip backing.
Electrical cords across walkways
Fix: Reroute cords along walls. Use cord covers if cords must cross a path.
Furniture blocking walkways
Fix: Arrange furniture to create clear, wide walking paths. Remove unnecessary pieces.
Low furniture that's hard to get out of
Fix: Raise seat heights with firm cushions or furniture risers. Avoid deep, soft sofas.
Pets underfoot
Fix: Be aware of pet location when walking. Attach bells to pet collars. Secure pet toys.
No phone within reach when seated
Fix: Keep a cordless phone or charged cell phone within reach in every main room.