Creating a Safe Home Environment for Seniors: Essential Bathroom Safety Upgrades
Working with seniors, we at The Move MBA have made it a top priority to try to ensure the safety and comfort of our clients in their current and future homes. One of the most crucial areas to address is the bathroom, where slips, falls, and other accidents can easily occur. Implementing safety modifications in the bathroom can significantly reduce risks and create a more secure environment for seniors.
Install Grab Bars
What to Do:
Placement: Install grab bars near the toilet, in the shower or tub area, and any other places where additional support is needed. Make sure they are securely anchored to the wall and capable of supporting the senior's weight.
Types: Opt for grab bars that are sturdy, non-slip, and of a comfortable diameter for gripping.
Why It’s Important: Grab bars provide crucial support and stability, reducing the risk of falls and helping seniors maintain balance when getting in and out of the shower or using the toilet.
Upgrade to a Walk-In Tub or Shower
What to Do:
Walk-In Tub: Consider installing a walk-in tub with a low threshold and a built-in seat. Ensure it has non-slip surfaces and grab bars for added safety.
Walk-In Shower: If a walk-in shower is preferred, choose one with a low or no threshold to eliminate tripping hazards. Incorporate a bench and hand-held showerhead for convenience.
Why It’s Important: Walk-in tubs and showers provide easier access and reduce the risk of slipping while getting in and out of the bathing area. They also offer a more comfortable and safe bathing experience. This is an investment but may be worth it for the peace of mind.
Add Non-Slip Flooring
What to Do:
Material: Replace existing flooring with non-slip, water-resistant materials such as textured vinyl, rubber, or slip-resistant tiles.
Rugs: Avoid using loose rugs or mats that can become tripping hazards. If rugs are used, ensure they have non-slip backing or are securely fastened.
Why It’s Important: Non-slip flooring helps prevent falls and provides better traction, especially when the floor is wet. This is particularly important in areas where water spills are common.
Ensure Adequate Lighting
What to Do:
Lighting: Install bright, even lighting throughout the bathroom, including above the sink, near the shower or tub, and in any dark corners.
Night Lights: Use motion-sensor night lights or illuminated switches to help seniors navigate the bathroom safely during nighttime trips.
Why It’s Important: Proper lighting reduces the risk of accidents caused by poor visibility. Adequate illumination helps seniors see clearly and avoid hazards in the bathroom.
Use a Raised Toilet Seat
What to Do:
Installation: Install a raised toilet seat or a toilet safety frame to elevate the seat height, making it easier for seniors to sit down and stand up.
Comfort: Choose a seat with armrests for additional support.
Why It’s Important: A raised toilet seat reduces the strain on seniors’ knees and hips, making it easier for them to use the toilet safely and comfortably.
Implement Temperature Control
What to Do:
Shower Controls: Install a temperature control valve or anti-scald device on the shower to prevent hot water burns. Set the maximum temperature to a safe level.
Thermostats: Consider installing a thermostatic control for the water heater to ensure consistent and safe water temperatures.
Why It’s Important: Controlling water temperature helps prevent burns and scalds, particularly for seniors with sensitive skin or impaired sensation.
Provide Accessible Storage
What to Do:
Placement: Place commonly used items within easy reach to avoid the need for stretching or bending. Use pull-out shelves or drawers for convenience.
Safety: Ensure that storage areas are organized and free from clutter to prevent accidents.
Why It’s Important: Accessible storage reduces the risk of accidents caused by reaching or bending. It also helps keep the bathroom tidy and reduces the risk of tripping over misplaced items.
Take Aways
Creating a safe bathroom environment is one way that seniors can keep themselves safe, particularly at their most vulnerable moments such as in the middle of the night. By installing grab bars, upgrading to walk-in tubs or showers, adding non-slip flooring, ensuring adequate lighting, using raised toilet seats, implementing temperature control, and providing accessible storage, you can significantly enhance the safety and comfort of the bathroom. These modifications help reduce the risk of falls and accidents, making daily activities safer and more manageable.
Thinking about your future? We’re here at The Move MBA to help.
