Home Safety Audit — Answer Each Question
Answer honestly about your home right now — not how you plan to fix it. You'll receive a risk score and a prioritized list of what to address first.
Your priority action list:
General awareness tool only. This audit identifies common fall hazards based on CDC and AARP home safety guidelines. It does not constitute a professional home safety assessment. For a comprehensive evaluation, contact a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) or occupational therapist. Individual risk factors vary — consult your physician about your personal fall risk.
Common Questions
What is the #1 cause of injury death in Americans over 65?
Falls. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in older adults. Every year, 3 million older adults are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries. One in five falls causes a serious injury — a broken bone or head injury. Hip fractures from falls are a leading cause of loss of independence in adults over 70.
What are the most important fall prevention modifications?
In order of impact: (1) Grab bars next to every toilet and in every shower — bolted into studs, not suction cups. (2) Adequate lighting in all hallways, bathrooms, and stairways — especially motion-activated night lights. (3) Removal of throw rugs and tripping hazards. (4) Non-slip mats in bathrooms. (5) Handrails on both sides of all stairways. These five modifications address the majority of home fall risks.
How much does it cost to fall-proof a home?
Basic fall-proofing — grab bars, night lights, non-slip mats, and removing throw rugs — costs under $300 and can be done in a weekend. A full renovation including comfort-height toilet, walk-in shower, and stairlift runs $5,000–25,000 depending on scope. Do the cheap things this weekend. Plan the bigger projects now while you have time and income to choose right.
What is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist?
A CAPS-certified professional (typically a contractor, occupational therapist, or designer) has completed training from the National Association of Home Builders specifically in home modifications for aging in place. They can assess your home and recommend modifications based on your specific mobility and health situation. Find one at nahb.org.