Chapter 5: Getting prepared: Safety and risks

The home: Space and place

She moved to the bedroom on the main floor because the stairs were a problem. I slept upstairs and it worked out fine.

Ensuring that the home is safe and comfortable for the person who is ill and for you is an important first step in caregiving. Some simple changes to the home may help to:

  • Increase safety for you and the person who is ill.
  • Streamline or simplify care.

Below are several considerations and questions to help assess the home space. Think about each and determine if it may pose a safety risk to you, the person who is ill, or anyone else living in or visiting in the home. An occupational therapist, if available, can conduct a home safety assessment. Speak with a healthcare provider to see if one is available.

*In the “Helpful resources” section, you will find a summary PDF of this assessment (Assessing the home for safety) that you can download and print for future use.

Click each category below for some questions to consider.

​​ Helpful resources