AFriendlyHouse.com

Not everyone has joined the digital age, but being safe at home means having reliable ways to call for help and communicate with family, neighbors and, if necessary, emergency personnel.

1. Are house numbers visible from the street?
2. Is the doorbell in good working order, and is there a window from which residents can see visitors approaching?
3. Are there easy-to-use phones and other programmable call devices?
4. Are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in good working order and appropriate to the resident's visual and hearing abilities?
5. Is there a security system?
6. Are smart systems intuitive to use, with large display faces, buttons, etc., that can be manipulated with a touch?
7. Is there an answering machine or voice mail on the telephone?
8. Is there a working intercom system, where needed?

For more complete home safety check lists, click on the following links:

"Safe at Home Checklist" from Rebuilding Together, along with the Administration on Aging and the American Occupational Therapy Association

"Preventing Falls at Home" brochure with an easy-to-follow checklist from the Administration on Aging

"The AARP Home Fit Guide: Information and Tips to Keep Your Home in Top Form for Comfort, Safety, and Livability" booklet includes checklists on home maintenance and energy efficiency, as well as livability evaluations and recommendations for fixing problems and how to get professional help

CAPS directory of Certified Aging in Place Specialists from the National Association of Home Builders