As we age, our bodies change and our homes need to adapt to our changing needs. One of the most important areas to focus on is the bathroom. It can be a dangerous place for older adults. The bathroom is known as the most common room in the house for falls. Injuries from bathroom falls can be severe. What can you do to prevent falls and other accidents in the bathroom?
Install grab bars.
Grab bars are an essential safety feature for any bathroom. This is especially true for homes where elderly people live. Grab bars provide support and stability, making it easier to get in and out of the shower or bathtub. Make sure to install them near the toilet, bathtub and shower as well as in areas where there is a risk of falling.
Use non-slip mats.
Non-slip mats are simple and effective ways to prevent slips and falls. They provide traction, even when the floor is wet. Place them in the bathtub or shower, and on the floor near the sink, toilet, and other areas where there is a risk of falling.
Raise the toilet seat.
Raising the toilet seat can make it easier for older adults to get on and off the toilet. It also helps reduce the risk of falls. Consider using a raised toilet seat or a toilet riser, which can be easily installed and removed.
Use a shower bench.
A shower bench is a great way to provide a stable surface for sitting while showering. It can also be used as a step stool to reach high shelves. Make sure the bench is sturdy and has a non-slip surface.
Install a walk-in tub.
Walk-in tubs have a low step-in threshold and a built-in seat, making them a safer option for older adults. They also have built-in safety features such as grab bars and non-slip surfaces.
Add lighting.
Adequate lighting is essential for bathroom safety. Make sure there is enough light to see the floor and any obstacles clearly. Consider installing motion-sensor lights, which turn on automatically when someone enters the bathroom. Use automatic night lights as well. Automatic night lights turn on when it’s dark and off when it’s light, providing a well-lit path to the bathroom at night
Keep the bathroom clutter-free.
A cluttered bathroom can be a tripping hazard. Keep the floor clear of any items that may cause a fall. Make sure there is enough space to move around easily.
As noted, the bathroom poses the greatest fall risk for seniors and those with disabilities, as they are typically small and often have many slippery surfaces. As we age, our mobility and physical strength diminish and many aspects of a bathroom that were once functional become difficult to manoeuvre.
At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we offer a wide variety of home bathroom modifications. They include oversized light switches, roll in showers, bath lift chairs, transfer benches, walk in tubs, night lights, grab bars, raised support toilet seats and shower chairs. To learn more, please don’t hesitate to call us at 416-267-9800 or email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
