Bath Safety Tips for Seniors

The bathroom might not seem like a dangerous place, but research from the National Institute on Aging indicates that when seniors fall, 80 percent of those falls happen in the bathroom. Fortunately, many of these falls can be prevented with some proactive methods to make the bathroom safer. A major renovation or remodel isn’t necessary; a few simple and cost-effective measures can go a long way.

How to Improve Bathroom Safety for Seniors

Consider these simple modifications to significantly improve bathroom safety.

• Put in some grab bars. Grab bars in the shower and tub are extremely helpful. But they can also be beneficial when placed on either side of the toilet. Placed strategically at other points in the bathroom, grab bars and safety rails can help older people safely navigate the bathroom, even when feeling a little off balance.
• Choose non-slip surfaces. A non-slip shower floor mat in the tub helps, but safety needs to be in place once someone gets out, too. Traditional bathmats can be trip hazards, and wet floors can be very dangerous. Choose a non-slip mat with a rubber backing, so that it won’t slip, or consider switching the flooring to non-stick tiles, vinyl, bamboo, linoleum, or cork.
• Install a raised toilet seat. Something as simple as getting on and off the toilet can be hazardous for someone with low mobility. While grab bars by the toilet are helpful, a raised toilet seat is even better. Measure your toilet before you go and check to make sure that you choose a model that is approved by the ADA.
• Turn down the heat. Hot water can easily burn or scald an older person or child, but for a senior it is especially harmful, because it can strain the cardiovascular system. Water temperature can be lowered at the water heater, by turning its thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or an anti-scald pressure-balancing valve can be installed.
• Turn up the lights. Mood lighting isn’t practical for older adults. Poor lighting is a top cause of bathroom falls, so make sure yours are at the right level, not too bright and not too dark. Consider layered lighting, with task lighting that lights functional spaces without shadows, ambient lighting for overall illumination, and accent lighting for a decorative flair. Nightlights are also smart, in the bathroom and lighting the way to the bathroom.
• Keep essentials handy. Having to reach for things like soap, shampoo, and towels can cause a slip and fall accident. Keep these items safely within reach, organizing them in a shower caddy and a towel rack placed near the shower, and at an easily accessible height.
• Use a shower chair. A shower chair or bench can be installed in a shower, or you can simply purchase one on its own. This prevents seniors from having to stand too long in the shower, which can cause fatigue and the risk of falling. Shower chairs and benches fit into the shower and their non-slip feet keep them from slipping when someone sits on them, so they provide a comfortable way to shower.
• Rethink your fixtures. A handheld shower head with gentle spray patterns and adjustable water pressure is an excellent tool for promoting bathroom safety. Additionally, look for ergonomic faucets and shower handles that can are easy to operate with reduced arm and hand strength.
• Use a weighted shower curtain. Perhaps the simplest modification on the list, using a weighted shower curtain keeps water off of the floor and prevents slipping. These look and function like regular shower curtains, but weighs in the hem keep them in place during a shower. If you have a glass shower enclosure, make sure it’s made of safety glass.
• Consider more substantial renovation. If you are ready to remodel the bathroom, make it more senior friendly. A walk-in shower is easier to navigate than a traditional bath/shower combination. A bathroom remodel can also involve non-slip flooring, shelves and cabinets that are easy to reach, and other measures for safety and convenience.

The Impact of Bathroom Safety for Elderly People

Bathroom safety is important for everyone, but especially for older people. Making the bathroom a more comfortable, safer place can be life changing, reducing the risk of injury, creating a comfortable space and giving older adults more independence. If you are a senior, renovating your bathroom is a smart move in terms of future proofing and making your home safer for aging in place.

Bathroom Fall Prevention: Reducing Falls at Home with Home Health Supplies

Preventing falls in the bathroom can be as simple as taking the steps mentioned above. Reducing falls in the house can also be simple, with some helpful home health supplies. Adjustable beds, lift chairs, walkers, ramps, and other medical supplies can make your home safer and easier to navigate. Whether you buy or rent these items, they can be a valuable investment improving the lives of the older people in your life.

Find Bathroom Safety Accessories and More Essentials at Texas Medical Supply

For everything you need to promote bathroom safety for seniors, trust Texas Medical Supply. Our locally owned and operated medical supply company, located in Houston, TX, offers an extensive selection of hospital beds, lift chairs, mobility scooters, power wheelchairs, and more. Whether you are looking to buy or rent medical equipment, we have something to fit your budget and lifestyle, including used equipment at affordable prices. Our team of experts is here for you every step of the way, from helping you make the most of your equipment to delivering equipment directly to your home, to assembling your equipment for you. Shop now to find the medical equipment you need, or contact us through our website for more information.