For elders, the bathroom is frequently listed as the most unsafe part of the house. Frequent slips and trips occur in the washroom, putting families in a tricky position. As many accidents arise in the bathroom, we strongly advise caregivers to inspect the restroom for any potential hazards. With a new perspective and a few easy improvements, the bathroom can become a secure and comfortable space for the whole family. Continue reading if you want to learn some tips on bath safety for seniors.
Place Items Within Reach
Your elderly family member should be able to access toiletry products in the tub or shower without having to over-extend or crouch. Mount body wash and shampoo containers on the bathroom wall or a basic shower rack for easy access. This move will keep product containers from crowding the floor and posing a tripping danger.
Consider a Shower Stool
An easy option for older adults who have difficulty standing or balancing is to use a waterproof seat in the walk-in shower or tub. Shower seats come in a range of sizes and are usually constructed of plastic with a non-rusting metal structure.
They may be rolled into the showers or placed in the bathtub and then taken out when not being used. Ensure the chair is secure before using, and if required, place a non-slip pad beneath it for further precaution. Safety elements such as seat belts, footboards, armrests, and headrests are included in some stools.
Set Up Grab Bars or Handles
In the bathroom, there will always be slick surfaces. It wouldn’t be a bathroom if there wasn’t any water at all! Make sense? Even while removing all feasible factors that cause slippery surfaces is the correct approach, this may not always be practicable.
This is where grab bars and shower safety handrails come in to assist with stability. These grips are typically used to aid individuals in entering and exiting showers or baths, but they may also be used near the toilet to assist with movement. A bar to grab on to might sometimes make merely moving about the restroom a tad smoother.
Remove Rugs and Go for Non-Slip Mats
Bathroom rugs are among the most dangerous items in the restroom even though they offer that added fuzzy foot sensation when you step out of the shower or bathtub. But when you combine a damp surface with an unsecured mat, the risk of slipping is extremely high.
What you want to do is to remove any rugs that haven’t been secured to the ground. Rather, seek safety bath mats with a rubberized bottom that grips the floor firmly. They should be slimmer and less thick than typical bath mats, with special care taken to ensure that the corners don’t rise and cause trip hazards.
It is not necessary to invest in costly solutions to protect elderly persons from restroom falls. Implementing a few improvements mentioned in this article can lessen the danger of falls, allowing your loved ones to age in peace. You may also hire a caregiver to help oversee the showering process if you want to guarantee maximum shower comfort. The right person can also provide additional hands-on care, such as personal grooming tasks.
