Coming Home After a Stroke or Surgery: Making Your Home Safe

A smiling caregiver in blue scrubs stands beside an elderly man sitting on a living room sofa

Coming home after a hospital stay is a relief, and also a risk if the home is not ready. A little preparation makes the first weeks safer.

Before discharge

  1. Ask the hospital's occupational therapist (OT) what the person will need: for example help with stairs, bathing and getting around.
  2. Walk through the home with the OT's recommendations. Look at the entrance, stairs, bathroom and bedroom.
  3. Arrange equipment early. Renting can bridge the gap, see our rentals.

Priorities for the first weeks

  • Entrance. A ramp, portable or modular. See ramp options.
  • Stairs. A rented stairlift or a bed on the main floor.
  • Bathroom. Grab bars, a shower seat and a handheld shower. See bathroom safety.
  • Bedroom. Clear pathways, a night light and a bed at a safe height.

Longer term

If mobility does not fully return, plan permanent changes with the OT. Funding may be available, see BC RAHA and the tax credit.

Caring for the caregiver

Lifting, helping on stairs and bathing are physically demanding. Equipment protects the caregiver as well as the person being cared for.

Clinicians can refer a client directly, see for clinicians. Families can book a free in-home assessment or call 604-259-1211.