Aging-In-Place Home Safety Assessment
Our Aging-in-Place home safety assessment, performed by a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS), is designed to help homeowners create a safer, more comfortable living environment as their needs evolve over time.
This service focuses on identifying potential hazards and recommending practical modifications that support independence, mobility, and peace of mind.
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During the assessment, we take a comprehensive look at key areas of the home, including entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, stairways, and lighting. We evaluate factors such as fall risks, accessibility challenges, and overall usability, then provide clear, personalized recommendations to improve safety and convenience. These may include installing grab bars, improving lighting, reducing tripping hazards, or modifying layouts to allow for easier movement throughout the home.
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Our goal is to help you or your loved ones remain safely in the home you love for as long as possible. With expert guidance and thoughtful solutions, we make it easier to plan ahead, prevent accidents, and maintain confidence in your living space.
Entrance to the Home:
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Is there a clear path to the front door?
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Is the path surface free of obstacles or uneven surfaces?
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Is the path well lit? If there are stairs, are they sturdy?
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If there are stairs, is there a handrail?
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Is the doorway wide enough for emergency personnel and equipment​
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Floors:
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Are walking paths free of clutter?
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Is excess furniture preventing you from accessing certain areas?
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Is there adequate walking space for use of a mobility device, if needed?
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If you have area/throw rugs, are the edges or corners rolling up?
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Are the floors clear of cords or cables? Are there smooth transitions between different types of flooring (wood to carpet, etc.)?
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Hallways and Doorways:
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Is there excess furniture in the hallways that may hinder use of a mobility device, if needed?
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Do any rugs move under your feet when you walk?
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Are the doorways wide enough for the use of a mobility device, if needed? (36 inches is ideal)
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Does the direction that the door opens hinder your ability to access certain aspects of the room or closet?
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Safety Assessment Checklist (Example)
Stairs:
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Are there handrails available, covering the entire length of the stairs, including the landings?
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Are the handrails secure?
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Is the floor covering free from damage, rippling carpet, or raised floorboards?
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Do you have proper grip on the steps, are they slippery?
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Are the stairs properly lit?
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Any burnt-out bulbs?
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Kitchen:
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Are you able to reach all most-used items in the pantry, cupboards, and fridge without reaching outside your base of support or using a stepstool?
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Are there any areas where water may leak onto the floor (fridge, dishwasher, sink)?
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Do you have to stack and unstack items, daily to get what you need?
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Is there room to move a mobility device around the kitchen, if needed?
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Are flammable items kept away from the stove?
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Do you have a clear path for transporting items from an appliance (fridge, stove, dishwasher) to a flat countertop?
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Is there adequate, available counterspace for meal prep, or to set heavy items on?
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Living Room:
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Are there clear pathways to all needed furniture?
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Are there any power or cable cords on walking surfaces?
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Are you easily able to sit down and stand up from your furniture?
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Do you have adequate postural support in your favorite spot?
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Can you view the television without turning your neck or trunk?
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Bathroom:
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Is the floor of the tub/shower slippery?
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Do the bathmats on the floor slide under your feet when you step on them?
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Do you feel the need for grab bars in the shower or other areas?
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Do you find yourself using the towel rack as a grab bar? (not recommended)
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Is the toilet an appropriate height for getting up and down easily?
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If you have a built-in seat or bench in the shower, is it sturdy?
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Do you have something sturdy to hold onto near or on the toilet?
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Bedroom:
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Are you able to easily reach a light at the side of the bed?
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Is there a clear, lit path from the bed to the bathroom?
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Do your feet rest flat on the floor when you sit on the edge of the bed?
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Are you able to stand up easily and safely from the edge of the bed?
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Are you able to easily lay down and sit up from the bed?
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Are you able to easily reach most-needed clothing items in closets and drawers without excessive reach?