When you invite Good Company to conduct a home safety assessment, you are getting more than a quick walkthrough. Our assessments are guided by the Senior Home Safety Specialist certification and use a standardized checklist tool based on best practices in aging-in-place and universal design. This ensures consistency, thoroughness, and practical recommendations you can rely on.

Why it matters

Falls and home accidents remain one of the biggest threats to independence for older adults, but the truth is that small environmental changes can make a big difference. Research shows that delaying entry into residential care by just one year through adapting a person’s home can save around $48,000 per person. A safety assessment is the first step toward identifying risks and planning improvements that pay off in comfort, peace of mind, and long-term savings.

How it works

A typical home safety assessment takes about one to two hours and follows a clear, room-by-room structure. Here is what you can expect:

Entryways and outdoors

We begin by looking at how you access your home. Are the walkways smooth and well-lit? Are steps clearly marked and supported by sturdy handrails? Do ramps meet recommended slopes and include non-slip surfaces? Even small fixes like trimming back shrubs or adding a motion-sensor light can make access safer.

Living spaces

Inside, we check for clutter, loose cords, throw rugs without backing, or furniture that creates tripping hazards. We also look at lighting, clear pathways, and whether chairs and tables are stable and easy to use. The goal is to make your main living spaces safe without sacrificing comfort.

Stairs and hallways

Stairways are one of the most important areas we examine. We ensure handrails are sturdy, continuous, and easy to grasp. Lighting should be bright, with switches at both ends of stairs and hallways. Marked edges, secure treads, and clutter-free landings are all part of our checklist.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are where slips most often occur. We look for grab bars by toilets and tubs, non-slip strips in bathtubs and showers, handheld shower heads, and accessible faucets. We also consider the layout and whether items like toiletries are within safe reach.

Kitchens and laundry

We check that frequently used items are stored at easy-to-reach heights, faucets are safe to use, and appliances are clearly labeled and functional. Good lighting over work areas is a must, and we note whether additional supports like anti-scald devices or stove timers would improve safety.

Bedrooms

In the bedroom, we check that there is a clear path to the bathroom, night-lights along the way, and safe flooring. We also make sure essential items like phones or mobility aids are within reach of the bed.

General safety

We finish by looking at home-wide safety concerns. This includes checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, the placement of fire extinguishers, safe storage of medications and cleaning supplies, and whether emergency numbers are posted and accessible.

What you receive

At the end of the assessment, you receive a written report with observations and practical recommendations. Some changes are quick wins, such as adding non-slip mats or adjusting lighting. Others may involve installations like grab bars or railings. Good Company can implement many of these improvements directly, and when more specific guidance is needed, such as the exact placement of supports, we can work alongside an occupational therapist to carry out those recommendations.

Peace of mind for families

For older adults, the assessment provides reassurance that their home supports independence. For adult children, it provides confidence that their parents are living in a safer environment. And for families with a growing household, it highlights changes that improve safety for children and visitors too.

Moving forward

A home safety assessment is not a one-time task but the start of an ongoing process. As needs and circumstances change, homes should be revisited and adjusted. Good Company offers follow-up visits, recurring maintenance plans, and the practical support to keep improvements in place over time. Reach out if you’re interested in booking an assessment!