A Room-by-Room Home Safety Walk-Through
Simple changes that can make your home safer and help prevent falls, based on CDC guidance.
Updated October 13, 2026 by Years Ahead Living
About 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older report a fall each year, according to the CDC. Many falls happen at home, and many risks are easy to fix.
Floors and stairs
- Remove or secure throw rugs.
- Keep paths clear of cords, shoes, and clutter.
- Have handrails on both sides of stairs and good lighting at the top and bottom.
Bathroom
- Put a non-slip mat in the tub or shower.
- Install grab bars by the toilet and in the tub. (Towel racks are not built to hold your weight.)
Bedroom and nighttime
- Keep a lamp within reach of the bed.
- Use night-lights along the path to the bathroom.
Beyond the house
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines; some can cause dizziness.
- Get your eyes checked yearly.
- Do strength and balance exercises.
- Tell your doctor if you have fallen or feel unsteady. They can help.
Download the free printable checklist
Sources
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your doctor about your own situation.