Steps

1. Walk the daily route. Follow the path from bed to bathroom to kitchen to the front door. Look down. Anything on the floor along that path is a trip risk.
2. Bedroom. Put a lamp or night light within reach of the bed. Keep the path to the bathroom clear and lit.
3. Bathroom. Use non-slip mats inside and outside the tub. Add grab bars mounted into studs. Towel racks are not grab bars.
4. Living room. Remove loose rugs, tuck away cords, and arrange furniture so a walker or wheelchair can pass.
5. Kitchen. Move everyday items to shelves between waist and shoulder height so there is no need to climb or bend low.
6. Stairs and entry. Make sure stairs have sturdy rails and good light at the top and bottom. Check door thresholds and outside steps.
7. Keep a phone close. Keep a phone within reach of the bed and the favorite chair, so help is a call away.

Checklist

• Daily route walked and cleared
• Night lights from bed to bathroom
• Non-slip mats in and outside the tub
• Loose rugs and cords removed
• Everyday items between waist and shoulder height
• Stair rails sturdy, stairs well lit
• Phone reachable from bed and chair

Equipment in this guide

• Standard Walker
• Rollator Walker
• Grab Bars
• Daily Living Aids