Housing
Determine whether the elderly person can continue living at home.
Prevent the elderly person from being injured by carefully examining all areas of the home to identify potential problems.
Replace throw rugs or floor runners not made with slip resistant backing.
Install carbon monoxide and smoke detector on each floor of the home.
Make sure that flammable items are placed away from the kitchen stove.
Check that hallways and stairwells are well lit.
Place nonskid mats and apply textured strips to any slippery surfaces in the bath and shower area.
Mount sturdy grab bars near the bathtub, shower and toilet areas.
Driving
Make sure that the elderly person does not appear drowsy or confused when driving.
Make sure that the elderly person does not have difficulty turning his head, neck or shoulders when driving or parking.
Suggest that the elderly person only drive in the daytime to familiar places not far from home.
Suggest that the elderly person does not drive alone.
Emergencies
Make sure the elderly person knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
Make sure the elderly person has access to a telephone from different locations within the house.
Consider contracting a medical alert system that provides emergency response services for elderly who live alone.

Elder Care Checklist

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