The complete home safety checklist for Parkinson's

🛁 Bathroom

The bathroom is the most common location for falls at home. Slippery surfaces, tight spaces, and the need to sit and stand make it especially dangerous.

• Install wall-mounted grab bars next to the toilet (both sides if possible)
• Install grab bars inside the shower or tub and at the entrance
• Use wall-screwed grab bars, NOT suction cup models (they fail under body weight)
• Place a shower chair or bench inside the tub or shower stall
• Install a raised toilet seat or toilet frame for easier sit-to-stand
• Place non-slip mats inside and outside the shower or tub
• Remove any loose or sliding bath mats and replace with non-slip alternatives
• Install a nightlight (warm-toned to avoid disrupting sleep)
• Consider a hand-held showerhead for seated bathing
• Keep the floor dry — wipe up water after each use

🛏 Bedroom

• Install a bed rail on the side they get out of bed
• Ensure the bed is at a height where feet touch the floor when sitting on the edge
• Place a nightlight between the bed and bathroom door
• Keep a walker or cane within arm's reach of the bed
• Keep a phone and medical alert device on the bedside table
• Use satin sheets or pyjamas to make turning in bed easier
• Remove any clutter, shoes, or rugs from the path to the door
• Consider a motion-sensor light that activates when getting out of bed

🛋 Living Areas

• Remove all loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing
• Tape down or cover electrical cords that cross walking paths
• Create wide, clear walking paths between furniture (at least 3 feet / 1 metre)
• Remove low coffee tables, footstools, and magazine racks from walking paths
• Use chairs with sturdy armrests that help with standing up
• Ensure all rooms are well-lit, including transitions between rooms
• Keep frequently used items (remote, phone, glasses) at waist height
• Avoid furniture on wheels unless it has lockable castors

🍳 Kitchen

• Place non-slip mats in front of the sink and stove
• Move frequently used items to counter height (avoid reaching up or bending down)
• Clean up spills immediately
• Use a kitchen trolley to move items instead of carrying them
• Install a stool or perching seat for tasks that take time (food prep, washing up)
• Never use a chair or step stool to reach high shelves — relocate items instead

🏠 Stairs & Hallways

• Install sturdy handrails on both sides of all staircases
• Apply brightly coloured tape or paint to the top and bottom steps
• Add non-skid strips to every step
• Ensure stairs are well-lit, with switches at both top and bottom
• Keep stairs completely clear of clutter at all times
• Add colour-contrasting tape at doorway thresholds and room transitions
• Install motion-sensor lights in hallways

🌳 Outdoors & Entrances

• Repair uneven pathways, loose paving, or cracked steps
• Install handrails along outdoor steps and ramps
• Add motion-sensor lighting at all entry points
• Keep paths clear of leaves, moss, and garden hoses
• Use non-slip outdoor mats at doorways (secured, not loose)
• In wet or icy weather, apply salt or grit to paths and steps

🚨 General Safety

• Set up a medical alert device or emergency pendant
• Ensure proper, well-fitting shoes with non-slip rubber soles are always worn (no bare feet or socks on smooth floors)
• Keep a phone accessible in every main room
• Post emergency numbers in large print near the main phone
• Schedule a professional home safety evaluation with an occupational therapist
• Review this checklist every 3-6 months as needs change