Housing Safety Devices, Tools, & Modifications
Devices or home modifications to help prevent falls or accidents
- Nonskid strips in tubs, showers, and stairs
- Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
- Set hot water heater to 120 degrees
- Label all medications and note expiration dates
- Non-breakable glasses and dishes
- Electrical cords and appliances in good condition and out of the way
- Toxic substances for cleaning, etc., clearly labeled and stored away from food
Devices or home modifications to ensure safe movement in and around the home
- Furniture rearranged for easy movement
- Widened hallways
- Ramps over steps
- Nightlights in bedrooms, halls, and bathrooms
- Flashlights and batteries in convenient places
- Clutter removed from stairs and exit areas
Devices or home modifications to prevent crime or vandalism
- Security system
- Doors and locks that are easy to turn
- Deadbolts on all doors
- Outdoor lighting to deter theft
- Trim shrubs and move debris away from windows and walkways
Communication tools for emergencies or staying in touch
- Cordless phones, headsets, and speakerphones
- Emergency response system or “call button”
- Phone numbers of emergency personnel, neighbors and friends clearly posted near all phones
- Computer with electronic mail
Adaptive equipment to help make activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing) easier to do
- Raised toilet seat
- Bath bench and hand-held showerhead
- Handrail and/or grab bar near toilet and shower/bath
- Eyeglasses and hearing aids
- Clothes that open in the front
- Specially designed eating utensils
- Remote controls for TV or lights
Alternate forms of transportation or mobility
- Canes and walkers
- Motorized carts
- Routes for busses and other public transportation
- Phone numbers for taxi service or private transportation posted by the phone
To locate specially designed, adaptive devices, contact the following.
- Sears Home Health Care – catalog available at no cost by calling Sears Catalog Store at 1-800-948-8800
- Solutions: Products that Make Life Easier – catalog available at no cost by calling 1-800-342-9988 or by writing to: Solutions, P.O. Box 6878, Portland, Oregon 97228-6878
- Enrichments – catalog available at no cost from Sammons-Preston by calling 1-800-323-5547 or by writing to: Sammons-Preston, P.O. Box 93040, Chicago, Illinois 60673
