As the Baby Boomers continue to age, many adults today have parents that are walking the fine line between being able to live independently and needing long-term care planning. We all want our parents to enjoy freedom and independence for as long as possible. So if your parents aren’t quite ready to move into an assisted living facility or nursing home, but their living alone is making you a nervous wreck, what can you do to help ensure their safety while they live independently? This checklist will not only help calm your nerves if your parents live alone, but is also a great checklist for your own home if you are considering moving Mom or Dad in as an alternative to costly elder care.
Throughout the Home Checklist:
- Are all areas of the home, especially stairways and hallways, well lit?
- Do all stairways have handrails securely fastened on both sides of the stairs?
- Do outside lights properly illuminate porches, sidewalks, stairs, garages or other entryways?
- Does the home have ample smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors? Have they been tested recently?
- Are all floors and stairways free of cords, frayed carpet and loose objects?
In the Kitchen:
- Can frequently used items be easily reached, without the aid of a chair or stool?
- Are all shelves and cabinets organized in a way to prevent objects falling?
- Is the fire extinguisher easily accessible from the stove? Has it been tested or replaced recently?
In the Bathroom:
- Are grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub securely fastened?
- Do the tub, shower and tile floors have non-slip surfaces?
- Is the hot water set to a safe temperature, to avoid scalding?
In the Bedroom:
- Does furniture placement allow for easy navigation?
- Are there nightlights to ensure occupants can safely navigate the room in an emergency or at night?
- Do bedside tables have non-tip lamps?
