🏠 Home Safety Checklist for Crutch Users

🚪 Entryways & Hallways

Hazards to Address:

• Remove or secure all floor mats, runners, and rugs
• Clear shoe racks, umbrellas, and clutter from entry zones
• Install motion-sensor lights or leave lights on 24/7
• Tack down or tape loose electrical cords along baseboards
• Widen walkways to minimum 36" (move furniture if needed)
• Add contrasting tape to edge of any steps or level changes
• Install handrails on both sides if hallway has steps
• Place non-slip strips on smooth tile or wood floors

🛏️ Bedroom

Sleep & Mobility Prep:

• Raise bed height to 20-24" (add risers if needed) - easier to sit/stand
• Clear floor space on crutch-exit side of bed (minimum 4 feet)
• Place lamp, phone, water within arm's reach of bed
• Move alarm clock closer so you don't have to reach far
• Lay out tomorrow's clothes at waist height (not in drawers)
• Install nightlight for safe nighttime bathroom trips
• Place sturdy chair next to bed for dressing while seated
• Remove decorative throw pillows and bed skirts (tripping hazards)
• Keep crutches leaning in designated spot, not lying on floor
• Consider a reacher/grabber tool on nightstand

🚿 Bathroom

Critical Safety Zone:

• ESSENTIAL: Install grab bars near toilet (both sides if possible)
• ESSENTIAL: Install grab bar in shower/tub
• ESSENTIAL: Place non-slip mat in shower/tub
• Add shower chair or transfer bench for seated bathing
• Lower shower head or get hand-held sprayer
• Raise toilet seat with elevated seat riser (3-4 inches)
• Remove bath mats (keep tile dry instead)
• Store toiletries at shoulder height - no bending
• Install nightlight for safe overnight use
• Keep extra hand towels in easy reach for drying feet
• Consider waterproof cast/boot cover if showering
• Place non-skid strips on bathroom floor outside shower

🍳 Kitchen

Cooking & Food Prep:

• Move frequently used items to counter level (no reaching up/down)
• Stock paper plates, disposable cups to reduce dishwashing
• Set up meal prep station at counter height
• Clean up spills immediately (slip hazard)
• Use kitchen stool/chair while preparing food
• Consider a rolling cart to transport items
• Store heavy pots/pans in lower cabinets (ask someone to move)
• Use oven mitts for better grip
• Avoid carrying hot liquids while on crutches
• Set up a "grab and go" snack station on counter
• Remove small rugs in front of sink/stove

🛋️ Living Room

Comfort & Recovery Zone:

• Create "recovery station" with everything within reach
• Arrange furniture to create clear 36" wide pathways
• Position recliner or couch for easy sit-to-stand
• Place side table next to seating for phone, remote, water
• Add cushions to raise seat height if furniture is too low
• Secure or remove floor lamps (easy to knock over)
• Tuck electrical cords behind furniture
• Remove coffee table or push to side if it blocks path
• Store entertainment remotes in one designated spot
• Keep ice packs in cooler next to couch

Your Recovery Station Should Include:

• Medications organized by time of day
• Water bottle with straw (easier to drink)
• Phone charger
• TV remote, tablet, books
• Tissues, hand sanitizer
• Snacks that don't require refrigeration
• Reacher/grabber tool
• Throw blanket
• Notepad for tracking pain/medications

🪜 Stairs

Highest Risk Area:

• ESSENTIAL: Ensure handrails are secure on at least one side
• ESSENTIAL: Improve lighting at top and bottom of stairs
• Add high-contrast tape to edge of each stair (especially top/bottom)
• Remove or secure any stair runners/carpet
• Clear stairs of all items (shoes, laundry, etc.)
• Consider keeping supplies on each floor to avoid stair trips
• Practice stair technique with supervision first
• Never carry items up/down stairs - use backpack
• Go slowly - rushing causes falls
• Install second handrail if possible (recommended)

🌳 Outdoor Areas

Yard, Porch, Driveway:

• Install temporary ramp over entry steps if possible
• Clear walkways of leaves, ice, snow, debris
• Add non-slip tape to outdoor steps
• Trim overgrown bushes along walkways
• Fix uneven concrete/pavers (trip hazards)
• Install motion-sensor lights for nighttime safety
• Move sprinkler systems or alert household to avoid wet paths
• Bring in doormats (or secure firmly)
• Ensure clear path from car to house
• Arrange for snow removal or lawn care if needed

📦 Storage & Organization

The "Waist-Height Rule":

• Move all frequently used items to waist-to-shoulder height
• Use a reacher/grabber tool for items you can't move
• Reorganize closets - daily clothes at eye level
• Store shoes in easy-access location (not floor of closet)
• Keep cleaning supplies in each room to avoid carrying
• Label boxes clearly so you don't have to dig through them
• Ask family members to retrieve heavy items when needed

Create "Zones" for Easy Access:

• Morning Zone: Bathroom items, breakfast, medications
• Work Zone: Laptop, chargers, work materials
• Meal Zone: Snacks, drinks, utensils
• Comfort Zone: Entertainment, pillows, ice packs
• Mobility Zone: Crutches, cane, accessories