Print this. Walk the house. Mark what already works and what does not. This is the same list we work through during a Home Safety & Access Assessment in Walton County homes.
Entries and porches
- Is there a solid handrail on both sides of any exterior stairs?
- Is the porch light bright enough to see keys and steps at night?
- Is there a motion-triggered light at the primary entry?
- Are the porch steps even, in good repair, and free of loose boards?
- Is the primary door easy to unlock and open with hands that hurt or shake?
Hallways and stairs
- Are throw rugs removed or firmly secured?
- Are hallways lit clearly, day and night?
- Are interior stair handrails firm on both sides?
- Are stair treads free of worn spots and loose carpet?
- Is a night light on the path from bed to bathroom?
Bathrooms
- Is there a properly anchored grab bar in the shower (not a suction-cup bar)?
- Is the shower floor non-slip? Is there a stable shower seat option?
- Is the toilet at a comfortable height, with a grab bar or rail nearby?
- Are frequently used items within easy reach?
- Is there a phone or medical alert device within reach of both toilet and shower?
Bedroom
- Is the bed a comfortable height to sit down on and stand up from?
- Is there a lamp within reach without leaning?
- Is the path to the bathroom clear and lit?
- Is a phone within reach of the bed?
Kitchen
- Are frequently used items between waist and shoulder height?
- Are step stools stable, or replaced with easier storage arrangements?
- Is the stove area free of drooping sleeves, dish towels, and clutter?
- Is the smoke alarm within earshot of the stove?
Alarms and general maintenance
- Are smoke alarms present on every floor and outside every sleeping area?
- Are alarms less than ten years old? Do they test?
- Is there at least one carbon monoxide alarm near sleeping areas?
- Are lightbulbs current and bright throughout the house?
- Are handrails, grab bars, and door hardware still firm?
If you can only do three things this month
Install one properly anchored grab bar in the shower. Add a non-slip surface where feet land. Put a night light on the path from bed to bathroom. Together, those three changes reduce a meaningful share of common nighttime and shower fall risks.
Want a trained set of eyes to walk through with you? A complimentary Home Safety & Access Assessment is exactly that — one visit, a written list of priorities, and no obligation.