Did you know that you visit the bathroom 7 times a day on average? That is how often one visits the toilet, and hence why it is critical to make the bathroom safe for you. After all, mature adults tend to have limited mobility and hence, struggle to move about in smaller-sized bathrooms. In addition, the water in bathrooms makes it slippery and further increases their risk of falling. In fact, a study found that 80% of injuries in the bathroom are caused by falls. Hence, here is a guide to bathroom safety tips for seniors.
Grab Bars
Grab bars are key to a safe bathroom. By adding grab bars, it ensures you will have sufficient support in the bathroom. For best results, install grab bars near the toilet bowl and near the shower or tub. These positions will allow you to steady youself as you transition in and out of the tub or on or off the toilet. In addition, grab bars should be installed into the studs of the wall for better support. It is also important for you to have an assessment done by a professional for the grab bars to work most effectively.
Non-Slip Mats
One major issue in bathrooms is the wet floors. Hence, to counter the risk of falling from slippery surfaces, use non-slip mats. Where should you place it then? Given that the most slippery place is the tub or shower, place the non-slip mats or decals on the floor of the shower or tub, and outside of the tub or shower. This ensures that you will have a significantly lower risk of falling in and outside the shower.
Test Water Temperature
What happens when you are suddenly splashed with extremely cold or hot water? You will be surprised and try to quickly move away right? That is what may happen to you if you did not test the water temperature. And the sudden movements can cause you to fall and get injured. Hence, ensure that the water temperature is below 120°F (49°C). You can do so by using a bathtub thermometer to check the water temperature to prevent burns from water that is too hot.
Make Things Accessible
It is important for you to make sure your commonly used items are within reach for you. That means having your towels and clothing ready, and your toiletries within arm’s reach, without needing to stretch or bend. To do so, find a place where it would be the most convenient for you. Following this, you can use toilet shelving to place your items.
Purchase a Shower Chair
Do you struggle with balancing or standing for long periods of time in the shower? If your answer is yes, shower chairs are the solution. A shower chair provides you with stability and hence makes bathing much easier. And you will get to enjoy the convenience and comfort of a chair in the shower too.
