It can be worrisome for loved ones when a senior starts having difficulty staying safe while in the bathroom. Ultimately, creating a safe bathroom environment for seniors comes down to being proactive and taking into account their specific needs. With a little bit of effort, everyone can feel more comfortable using the bathroom safely.
Falls are the most common cause of injury and death in seniors, according to the CDC. Every year, 2.5 million elders fall victim to injuries, which might necessitate hospitalization or even mortality. There are a lot of things that may be done to avoid these types of incidents.
Grab Bars
One way to make a bathroom safe for seniors is to install grab bars. Grab bars can help seniors stay steady on their feet and avoid falls. You can install grab bars near the toilet, in the shower, and next to the tub. This can help seniors take showers without having to stand for long periods of time. You can also put up rails around the bathtub so that seniors can hold onto something while they're getting in and out of the tub.
Patient Lift
Another safety measure you might also want to consider is getting a patient lift. Patient lifts can help seniors move around more easily and can make it easier for them to get in and out of the bathtub. There are a variety of patient lifts on the market, so you can find one that fits your needs and your budget.
Shower Benches and Chairs
Another great bathroom safety solution is a shower bench or chair. Shower benches and chairs can help seniors stay seated while they're taking a shower. This can help prevent falls and injuries.
Non-slip Mats in the Shower and Bathtub
Another way to make a bathroom safe for seniors is to add non-slip mats in the shower and bathtub. These mats can help prevent falls and injuries by providing a slip-resistant surface.
Toilet Safety Frames
A toilet safety frame is another purchase to consider. Toilet safety frames can assist seniors to keep their balance and avoid falls. They may also let them get in and out of the toilet with greater ease.
Bath Mats
Bath mats are another great bathroom safety solution. Bath mats can help seniors avoid slipping and falling while they're getting in or out of baths or showers.
Accessible Storage
Make sure that all medications and personal items are within reach so that seniors don't have to strain to reach them. This can help reduce the risk of falls. You can install shelving or cabinets near the sink and toilet for easy access.
Other Considerations
One of the most important things is to keep the toilet area clear of clutter. This includes both objects on the floor that could cause falls, as well as items on counters or shelves that could be reached out for and accidentally dropped.
Make sure there is plenty of lighting in the bathroom, both near the toilet and in the shower or bath area. It’s also important to keep the bathroom at a comfortable temperature, as seniors can be more sensitive to changes in temperature.
Making a bathroom safe for seniors can seem like a daunting task, but by implementing some of these simple solutions, you can help keep your loved ones safe. Visit Everything Medical to discover how we may assist you.
