A Home Safety Checklist For Hospice Patients

Individuals using walkers, canes, or wheelchairs, or who may have impaired vision or other mobility issues, need to have homes that are as safe and clear of hazards as possible. If you are caring for a loved one in home hospice, you will want to remember to periodically check the home for potential safety issues.

A home safety assessment can help prevent accidents and create a more comfortable environment for your loved one receiving home care. While some safety measures may seem obvious, a systematic room-by-room review often reveals overlooked hazards or opportunities for improvement.

You can print out this article and use it as a checklist so you don’t forget anything.

□ Entryways and Hallways

Begin where everyone enters the home. Ensure all exterior and interior doorways are well-lit and free from obstacles. Check that welcome mats are secured to prevent tripping, and consider installing mobility aids like grab bars near entrances. Hallways should remain clear with a minimum three-foot pathway for easy wheelchair or walker access. Night lights can help illuminate these areas during evening hours.

□ Living Room

The living room often serves as the main gathering space and should prioritize both comfort and safety. Check that furniture arrangements allow clear pathways for mobility devices. Secure all electrical cords along walls rather than across walking paths. If your loved one uses a favorite chair, ensure it's sturdy and at a height that allows them to sit and stand safely. Remove or secure throw rugs that could cause tripping.

□ Kitchen

Kitchen safety requires particular attention. Ensure frequently used items are within easy reach without requiring stretching or bending. Check that appliances are in good working order and have clear safety shut-offs. If your loved one still cooks, consider installing auto-shutoff devices on the stove. Adequate lighting over work areas can prevent accidents, and non-slip mats near the sink can provide extra stability.

□ Bathroom

Bathrooms present unique safety challenges. Ensure all grab bars are securely mounted - check for any wiggle or looseness. Non-slip mats both in and outside the shower or tub are essential. Consider installing a raised toilet seat or toilet safety rails if needed. Check that the hot water heater is set at a safe temperature to prevent scalding, and ensure any electrical appliances are kept away from water sources.

□ Bedroom

The bedroom should provide a safe haven for rest. Position the bed at a height that allows easy transfers. Create clear pathways to the bathroom for nighttime needs. Install nightlights or easy-to-reach bedside lamps. If using an adjustable bed, verify all controls work properly and that any electrical cords are secured away from moving parts.

□ Medication Storage

While not a room itself, medication storage deserves special attention. Create a well-organized, well-lit space for medications. Ensure all prescriptions are clearly labeled and stored at appropriate temperatures. Consider using medication organizers to prevent confusion, and safely dispose of any expired medications.

□ General Home Safety

Throughout the home, check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors - replace batteries and test all units. Verify that emergency numbers are posted in easily visible locations. Ensure all telephones or emergency alert systems are within easy reach of where your loved one spends most of their time.

□ Temperature Control

Check that heating and cooling systems work efficiently in all rooms. Ensure your loved one can easily adjust temperature controls, and consider installing additional fans or space heaters if needed (with appropriate safety features). Remember that elderly individuals often have difficulty regulating body temperature.

□ Outdoor Areas

Don't forget to assess outdoor spaces. Check that all walkways are even and well-maintained. Ensure adequate lighting along paths and near entrances. If you have stairs, verify that handrails are secure. Consider installing motion-sensor lights for added safety during evening hours.

Creating a Maintenance Schedule

After completing your safety assessment, create a schedule for regular safety checks throughout the year. Some items need monthly attention, while others can be reviewed quarterly or annually. Our care team can help you develop an appropriate maintenance schedule based on your specific situation. We may even have a volunteer who is able to help you implement some of your desired changes!

Remember, home safety is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. If you notice new challenges or changes in your loved one's condition, don't wait for your next scheduled check to make necessary adjustments. Our home health team is always available to help assess safety concerns and recommend appropriate modifications.