What’s Covered in a Home Safety Assessment for Seniors in Knoxville?
- Knoxville Aging in Place
- Jan 22
- 3 min read
Aging in place is more than a trend, it’s a growing movement among seniors who want to remain in their homes safely and independently. But how do you know what changes are truly necessary to make that happen? That’s where a home safety assessment comes in.
For Knoxville families, especially adult children supporting aging parents, a professional home safety assessment can be the key first step toward a safer, more accessible home. It helps you identify potential hazards, prioritize the most important updates, and plan modifications that match your budget and needs.
Here’s exactly what to expect from a safety assessment and why it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in long-term independence.
What Is a Home Safety Assessment?
A home safety assessment is a comprehensive walkthrough of the home by a trained professional who specializes in accessibility and fall prevention. The goal is to evaluate the living space through the lens of aging: identifying physical barriers, unsafe features, and areas that could be modified to improve mobility and safety.
At Knoxville Aging in Place, our assessments are personalized and designed with seniors in mind, whether you’re currently experiencing mobility limitations or simply planning ahead.
Who Should Get One?
Seniors planning to age in place
Adults recovering from surgery or injury
Families preparing for aging parents to move in
Caregivers looking to reduce fall risks
Veterans or TennCare recipients seeking funding for modifications
Whether you own or rent, a safety assessment helps you make informed decisions about how to adapt your home to changing needs.
What Areas Are Evaluated?
During a safety assessment, we examine the entire home, inside and out. Some of the most important areas include:
1. Entryways & Exits
We check for:
Step height and threshold hazards
Stability of handrails or the need for ramp installation
Adequate lighting
Door width and accessibility
If entry access is limited, we may recommend temporary solutions like our Ramp Rental Program or more permanent aluminum ramps. Learn more about entry and exit here.
2. Bathrooms
One of the most dangerous areas for falls. We assess:
The need for grab bars
Shower accessibility (is a walk-in shower or tub safer?)
Toilet height and stability
Flooring slip resistance
Many clients opt to upgrade to barrier-free showers for long-term safety and independence. Learn more about bathrooms here.
3. Stairs & Hallways
We evaluate:
The need for stair lifts
Sturdy handrails
Non-slip surfaces
Adequate lighting in transitional spaces
4. Kitchens
Kitchens are assessed for:
Reachability of commonly used items
Non-slip flooring
Clear walkways and mobility space
Lever-style faucet handles
5. Bedrooms & Living Areas
We look at:
Bed height and accessibility
Lighting and light switch placement
Furniture arrangement for mobility
Trip hazards like rugs or cords
Common Recommendations After a Home Assessment
After your walkthrough, we provide a detailed report outlining:
Immediate safety concerns
Suggested ADA-compliant upgrades
Budget-friendly options for short- and long-term improvements
Whether professional installation is needed
Potential funding sources (including Medicare and TennCare programs)
You’ll walk away with a clear roadmap so you don’t feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin.
FAQs About Home Safety Assessments
How long does it take?
Most assessments take 60–90 minutes depending on the size of the home and complexity of your needs.
Is there a cost?
Yes, but our assessments are affordable and include a full report with recommendations and estimates for any work you’d like us to handle. You’re never locked into anything.
Do I have to do everything on the list?
Not at all. We’ll help you prioritize the most important improvements first, and you can complete the rest over time or as your needs change.
Will you help with product selection and installation?
Yes—we handle everything from selecting the right ADA grab bars, to installing stair lifts, to managing full bathroom renovations.
Can this help with funding applications?
Absolutely. Our assessments often provide the documentation required for grants, VA support, TennCare waivers, or insurance reimbursement.
Why It’s Smart to Plan Early
Even if you or your loved one is still active and independent, planning ahead ensures:
Fewer emergency modifications after a fall or hospital stay
More time to save or secure funding
Peace of mind for family and caregivers
A safer, more livable home now and in the future
Remember, safety doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. Many of our upgrades, like sleek grab bars or low-profile ramps, blend beautifully into your existing design.
Book Your Home Safety Assessment Today
At Knoxville Aging in Place, we’ve helped hundreds of families take the first step toward safer, smarter living. Our team is compassionate, experienced, and dedicated to helping you stay where you belong—at home.
Your safety and independence are worth the conversation.
save to Pinterest
Comments