Home Safety Checklist for Seniors: 50 Fall-Proof Fixes

The quick take

Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults 65+. The good news: many risks hide in plain sight and are fixable today. Use this room-by-room list of 50 practical changes to cut tripping hazards, improve lighting and support, and pair your home fixes with balance and strength exercises that actually reduce falls. CDC+1

Start here: the 10 biggest wins

1. Remove or secure throw rugs with non-slip backing or tape. CDC
2. Add bright, even lighting on stairs, halls, entry, bathroom night path. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
3. Install sturdy handrails on both sides of stairs; ensure steps are even and in good repair. CDC
4. Put non-slip mats/strips in tub and shower. CDC
5. Add grab bars next to the toilet and inside/outside tub or shower. CDC
6. Clear floor clutter and cords from walkways. CDC
7. Use night-lights from bed to bathroom; place switches at room entries. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
8. Wear well-fitting, non-skid shoes indoors; avoid loose slippers. National Institute on Aging
9. Keep frequently used items waist-to-shoulder height to avoid step stools. National Institute on Aging
10. Start a balance/strength routine (e.g., tai chi, PT, group classes). uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org

Bottom line: Tackle these 10 this week. They deliver the fastest fall-risk drop for most homes.

Source: CDC STEADI; CPSC; NIH/NIA; USPSTF (2024). Last checked Nov 9, 2025. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org+3CDC+3U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission+3

The full 50-fix home safety checklist (room by room)

Entryway & exterior (7)

1. Repair cracked or uneven walkways; paint the top edge of steps for contrast. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
2. Ensure bright exterior lighting at porch/entry and path; add motion sensors. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
3. Add handrails at all exterior steps; rails should be easy to grasp. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
4. Place a non-slip doormat; secure corners. National Institute on Aging
5. Remove leaf/ice hazards promptly; use traction products where appropriate. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
6. Keep pets’ items (bowls, toys) out of walk paths. National Institute on Aging
7. Upgrade house numbers and doorbell so visitors/caregivers can help quickly.

Living room & common areas (8)

8. Clear pathways; re-arrange furniture to allow wide, straight routes. CDC
9. Secure cords along walls; avoid running under rugs. CDC
10. Replace wobbly tables; avoid glass tops that vanish visually. National Institute on Aging
11. Use non-slip rug pads if rugs must stay. CDC
12. Add task lighting at reading and hobby seats. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
13. Keep remote/phone within reach to prevent rushed get-ups. National Institute on Aging
14. Choose firm-seat, armrest chairs to make standing easier. National Institute on Aging
15. Mark step-down rooms or sunken living areas with visual contrast.

Stairs & hallways (6)

16. Handrails on both sides of every stair; tighten brackets. CDC
17. Install overhead lighting switches at top and bottom; use glow switches. CDC
18. Keep stair treads even; repair loose carpet or edges. CDC
19. Add high-contrast strip at the top/bottom step. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
20. Remove objects on stairs (papers, laundry). CDC
21. Consider anti-slip stair treads or low-pile stair carpet. CDC

Kitchen (5)

22. Store heavy items between knee and shoulder height. National Institute on Aging
23. Replace throw rugs with washable anti-fatigue mats that don’t curl. CDC
24. Use reachers/grabbers instead of step stools; if needed, choose a wide-base step stool with handhold, never climb chairs. National Institute on Aging
25. Wipe spills immediately; keep paper towels within arm’s reach. National Institute on Aging
26. Improve under-cabinet lighting for counters and sink. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Bathroom (8)

27. Add grab bars near toilet and inside/outside tub or shower; avoid using towel bars for support. CDC
28. Place non-slip mat/strips in tub/shower. CDC
29. Install a curb-less or low-threshold shower where possible. National Institute on Aging
30. Use a shower chair and handheld shower to reduce slips. National Institute on Aging
31. Add night-light and glare-free lighting over sink and in shower. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
32. Consider a raised toilet seat or toilet safety frame. National Institute on Aging
33. Keep bath supplies within easy reach; use corner shelves. National Institute on Aging
34. Secure bath mats with non-slip backing. CDC

Bedroom (5)

35. Bed height should allow feet flat on floor when sitting; avoid very soft, low beds. National Institute on Aging
36. Place lamp or switch within arm’s reach of bed; add night-lights to the bathroom path. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
37. Clear clothing/shoes from walk path; use a bench for dressing. CDC
38. Keep a sturdy phone or call device at bedside. National Institute on Aging
39. Use non-skid slippers or indoor shoes; avoid socks on bare floors. National Institute on Aging

Lighting & electrical (4)

40. Replace dim bulbs with brighter, diffused light; keep uniform light levels between rooms to reduce contrast changes. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
41. Add motion-sensor night-lights in halls, bath, and kitchen. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
42. Place switches at every room entrance; consider rocker switches. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
43. Label breakers and secure loose cords with clips along walls. CDC

Outdoors/garage (3)

44. Declutter garage paths; hang tools, coil hoses. National Institute on Aging
45. Use non-slip paint on steps/ramps; ensure ramp has handrails. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
46. Keep thresholds low; add beveled transitions where needed. AARP

Mobility, health & footwear (3)

47. Use the right cane/walker and keep tips in good condition; get a PT fit-check. National Institute on Aging
48. Schedule vision and hearing checks; update glasses; reduce glare. National Institute on Aging
49. Choose supportive, closed-heel shoes with non-slip soles. National Institute on Aging

Tech & monitoring (1)

50. Add smart plugs, voice assistants, or fall-detection wearables to reduce risky reaches and speed help if a fall occurs (supplements, not substitutes, for prevention). AARP

Bottom line: Most fixes are low-cost and DIY. Bathrooms, stairs, lighting, and clutter control deliver the biggest safety gain.

Source: CDC STEADI “Check for Safety,” NIH/NIA room-by-room tips, AARP HomeFit, CPSC senior safety. Last checked Nov 9, 2025. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission+3CDC+3National Institute on Aging+3

Do exercises really prevent falls?

Yes. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2024) recommends exercise programs for older adults at increased fall risk. Effective programs train balance, gait, and functional strength; many are group classes (tai chi, balance classes) or PT-guided sessions. The Task Force does not recommend vitamin D supplements solely to prevent falls in community-dwelling older adults. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org+1

How to start (simple routine, 10–20 minutes):

• Sit-to-stand from a sturdy chair, 2–3 sets of 5–10.
• Tandem stance (heel-to-toe) near a counter, 30–60 seconds each side.
• March in place with light counter support, 1–2 minutes.
• Ankle raises and hip abductions holding the sink, 10–15 each side.
• Consider tai chi or a local Matter of Balance or Otago program via senior centers.

Bottom line: Pair home fixes with ongoing balance/strength practice. That combination is what moves the needle.
Source: USPSTF recommendation; JAMA evidence review. Last checked Nov 9, 2025. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org+1

Decision table: DIY vs. pro, typical costs, and priority

Fix	DIY or Pro	Typical cost*	Priority
Remove/secure throw rugs	DIY	$0–$30 per rug (pads/tape)	High
Non-slip tub/shower mats	DIY	$10–$30	High
Add grab bars (stud-mounted)	Pro recommended	$150–$300 installed per bar	High
Handrails on both sides of stairs	Pro	$300–$800 per run	High
Night-lights/motion lights	DIY	$10–$40 each	High
Under-cabinet/task lighting	DIY/Pro	$25–$200	Medium
Raised toilet seat/toilet frame	DIY	$30–$120	High
Shower chair + handheld shower	DIY/Pro (handheld)	$40–$150	High
Anti-slip stair treads	DIY	$20–$80 per flight	Medium
Doorway threshold bevels/ramps	Pro	$50–$250 per threshold	Medium
Exterior path repairs	Pro	Varies ($)	High
Smart plugs/voice assistants	DIY	$15–$100	Medium

*Local prices vary; use as planning ranges.

Bottom line: If budget is tight, start with no-tools fixes and lighting, then target bathroom and stairs with pro installs.

Source: AARP HomeFit (modification ideas), CPSC (lighting/rails), CDC STEADI (priorities). Last checked Nov 9, 2025. AARP+2U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission+2

Medication, vision, and medical checks

• Ask your clinician or pharmacist for a medication review. Sedatives, some sleep aids, and multiple meds can raise fall risk. Pair with blood pressure and gait/balance checks. (USPSTF supports targeted multifactorial interventions.) uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org
• Schedule annual vision (and hearing) checks; update prescriptions and reduce glare. National Institute on Aging
• After any fall, tell your clinician—even if you weren’t hurt. Falling once doubles the chance of falling again. CDC

Bottom line: Home fixes work best when paired with med, vision, and balance tune-ups.

When to reassess the home

• After hospitalization or new diagnosis.
• After any fall or near-fall (trip, slip you caught).
• When mobility aids change (new cane/walker).
• Seasonal sweep: spring/fall checks for lighting, steps, and exterior surfaces.
• Annual AARP HomeFit walkthrough for new ideas. AARP

Bottom line: Think of safety as maintenance, not a one-time project.

Important disclaimer

This guide is general education, not medical advice. Ask your clinician or a licensed contractor/OT for personalized recommendations. Program and safety guidance can change; always follow local codes and manufacturer instructions.

Source notes for sensitive facts

• Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults 65+; over 1 in 4 report a fall each year; falling once doubles future fall risk. Source: CDC, last checked Nov 9, 2025. CDC+1
• Exercise reduces falls; vitamin D not recommended broadly for prevention. Source: USPSTF (2024) and JAMA evidence review, last checked Nov 9, 2025. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org+1
• Home checklist items (rugs, lighting, rails, tub mats, grab bars): CDC STEADI, CPSC, NIH/NIA, AARP HomeFit, last checked Nov 9, 2025. AARP+3CDC+3U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission+3

FAQs

1) What are the most common home hazards that cause senior falls?
Clutter and cords in walkways, throw rugs, poor lighting, slippery bathrooms, and stair issues (no handrails, uneven steps) top the list. Start with those. CDC+1

2) Where should grab bars go in the bathroom?
At the toilet and inside/outside the tub or shower, anchored to studs (or proper anchors) for weight-bearing support. Avoid using towel bars as substitutes. CDC

3) Should seniors get rid of all throw rugs?
If possible, yes. If a rug must stay, secure it with non-slip backing or double-sided tape and ensure edges can’t curl. CDC

4) What lighting upgrades help most?
Bright, even hall and stair lighting, night-lights to the bathroom, and switches at each entry to avoid walking in the dark. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

5) Do balance exercises really prevent falls?
Yes. Exercise programs that train balance, gait, and strength reduce falls in older adults at risk. Consider tai chi, group classes, or PT-guided routines. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org

6) Are vitamin D or calcium supplements helpful for fall prevention?
Not for fall prevention in community-dwelling older adults, per USPSTF. Follow your clinician’s advice for bone health. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org

7) How often should we reassess the home?
After any fall, major health change, or equipment change—and at least once a year during a whole-home walkthrough (AARP HomeFit is a good guide). AARP