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In General | Floors & Hallways | Lighting & Electrical | Telephone | Checklist

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ChecklistChecklist for the Whole House

Windows/ Doors

[ ] Are windows and doors easy to open and close?

[ ] Are locks sturdy and easy to operate?

[ ] Are doors wide enough for a walker/wheelchair?

[ ] Are door thresholds low enough to get over safely?

[ ] Is there space to maneuver while opening or closing doors?

[ ] Does the front door have a view panel?

[ ] If so, is it at a proper height for you?

Floor Surfaces

[ ] Is the surface safe? Non-slip?

[ ] Are there scatter rugs or door mats that may be dangerous?

[ ] Are there changes in levels?

[ ] If so, are they obvious or marked in some way?

Steps/ Stairways/ Walkways

[ ] Are they safe and in good repair?

[ ] Are there handrails on both sides of stairway?

[ ] Is there enough space for both knuckles and fingers to hold onto railings?

[ ] Are the stair treads deep enough for your whole foot?

[ ] Are there any hazardous open risers on stairs?

[ ] Would a ramp be feasible in any of these areas if it became necessary?

Kitchen

[ ] Can oven and refrigerator doors be opened easily?

[ ] Are oven and stove controls easy to use and clearly marked?

[ ] Is counter height and depth good for you?

[ ] Can you sit while working?

[ ] Are door cabinet knobs easy to use?

[ ] Are faucets easy to use?

[ ] Do you have convenience items such as a garbage disposal?

Bath

[ ] Do you have a hand-held shower head?

[ ] Can you get in and out of tub or shower with ease?

[ ] Do you have bath or shower seat?

[ ] Are there grab bars where needed?

[ ] Is hot water heater regulated to prevent scalding?

Storage

[ ] Is storage located conveniently?

[ ] Is storage adequate and usable?

[ ] Can you reach things in your closets easily?

Electrical Outlets/ Switches/ Alarms

[ ] Are switches easy to turn on and off?

[ ] Are outlets properly grounded to prevent electrical shock?

[ ] Are all extension cords really necessary?

[ ] Are extension cords in good condition?

[ ] Do you have smoke detectors in all necessary areas?

[ ] Would you feel more comfortable with an alarm system?

[ ] Is the telephone easy to reach should you fall or have an emergency?

[ ] Is the telephone equipped for hearing enhancement if necessary?

[ ] Can you hear the doorbell in every part of the house?

Lighting/Ventilation

[ ] Is lighting sufficient for the purpose of each room?

[ ] Is lighting bright enough for safety?

[ ] Do you have night lights where needed?

[ ] Are rooms well-ventilated?

Driveway/Garage

[ ] Can you get from the car to your door easily?

[ ] Does garage door have an automatic opener?

Links to other sites with information on this topic:

Does Your Home Meet Your Needs?
The checklist above is adapted from a checklist on the AARP website.


linelineline

Last updated November 18, 2003.

The links below take you into OHSU's main website.