Short answer
Check the bathroom first, then the route from bed to bathroom, then the entrances. Three or more problems usually means it's time to plan changes, starting with grab bars, a non-slip floor and a shower your parent can walk into.
Walk through the home with this list
Bathroom
- Can they step into the shower without lifting a foot over a tub wall?
- Are there grab bars fixed into studs (not suction cups) by the toilet and shower?
- Is the floor non-slip when wet?
- Is there a seat in the shower and a handheld shower head?
Getting around
- Is there a clear, lit path from the bed to the bathroom at night?
- Are there loose rugs, cords or clutter on the floor?
- Do stairs have rails on both sides?
- Can they get in and out of the house without steps?
Daily living
- Are everyday dishes and food between hip and shoulder height?
- Are door handles and taps levers rather than knobs?
- Can they reach a phone from the floor if they fall?
Florida-specific
- Can they leave quickly if a hurricane evacuation is ordered? A ramp and a clear exit matter here.
- Is there backup power for medical devices during outages?
Three or more "no" answers usually means it's time to plan changes. Start with the bathroom.
Common questions
What are the warning signs a parent's home is no longer safe?
Bruises they can't explain, avoiding the shower or the stairs, holding on to furniture to walk, unopened mail piling up, and a recent fall or near-fall are all signs to act on.
What should I fix first?
Fix the bathroom first: grab bars, a non-slip floor and a shower seat. Then add lighting on the route from bed to bathroom, and remove loose rugs and cords.
Can a contractor assess the home if I live out of state?
Yes. Many aging-in-place contractors will walk the home with your parent and share photos and a quote with you by video or email.