How to make bathrooms safe for Seniors

While it is well-known that senior live-in care at home offers the best quality of life, bathrooms can pose particular dangers. Your loved one may be more at risk of falling if they require dementia care or have mobility problems. These are some tips to make your loved one's bathrooms safer.

 

1. Anti Slip Mats and Tiles

Most falls happen when you enter and exit the tub or shower. It's important to use an anti-slip mat in this area. They can also be placed near the bathroom's entrance, toilet, and sink.

If you are starting from scratch, slip-resistant tiles will be a good choice. You can use this in any room, or just in your shower. Safety is enhanced by anti-slip surfaces.

Non-slip adhesive tapes are also helpful, especially when they're used around the basin's edges. They prevent the hand from sliding if they grasp it for balance. These tape strips can be used to visually restrict slippery areas.

 
2. Grab bars & bath seats

With the addition of grab bars, your bathroom will be transformed into a safe haven for the elderly. They can support the full weight of an adult because they are attached to the wall using metal studs and suction cups. This is a portable solution that can be used elsewhere in the home.

Grab bars can be installed near the shower to make it easier for them to get in and out of the water quickly. You can also consider floor-to-ceiling tension poles if your parent needs assistance.

It can be tiring to stand for long periods of time. To help them relax, provide shower chairs with rubber legs tips. To make it even more enjoyable, give them a handheld shower with a long handle so they can move it around freely.

3. Adjustable chairs

You can eliminate the need to sit down and walk the extra distance by elevating the height of your toilet seat. You should be between 16 and 17 inches tall. If you share the bathroom, a raised seat can be purchased that they can place on their toilet seat and then remove it after each use.

For added security, attach brackets or locking clamps to your commode. This helps to keep the seat in place and keeps older people from falling asleep when they sit or stand.

4. Lighting & colour

Overhead lighting is often misunderstood as the best way to illuminate a bathroom. Because it casts shadows and doesn't evenly light certain areas, it can pose a danger to the elderly.

To ensure the bathroom is well lit, multiple lights should be installed. You should have separate lights for the mirror, sink, and shower.

To demarcate different areas of the bathroom, you can use contrasting colours. Avoid high-gloss paints and prefer matte colours. The former can create a confusing glare. This small step can help improve visual perception.

5. Walk-in Bath

For an older relative who loves to soak in warm tubs but is unable to get in or out, a walk-in bathtub could be the answer. These bathtubs are not designed to be climbed over like a regular tub. Instead, they have a door that opens so the user can walk in and get comfortable. This can reduce the risk of falling. Even if your loved ones receive round-the-clock nursing, they may prefer to bathe on their own. A walk-in bathtub can make this possible.

6. Shower Chair

Shower chairs can help balance your loved one, making it easier to shower. To prevent the chair from sliding, you should choose a shower chair with non-slip rubber legs. Ideal for people with mobility issues and other health problems is a simple stool that can be used in the bathtub or any number of chairs.

7. Temperature

For elderly people with sensory impairments or limited movement, scaling can pose a danger. Scalding can be dangerous for loved ones who are sensitive to high temperatures.

8. Bath Lift

A bath lift can be installed to help your loved one safely enter and exit the bathtub. A caregiver can assist your loved ones if they are unable to maintain their weight in the tub. There are many options available, including electric and mechanical.

9. Storage

Place essential items in a convenient place so that your loved one doesn't have to strain or bend to grab soap or shampoo. To keep all the accessories and toiletries of your loved one at an easy height, you might hang a shower caddy up on the wall.

To eliminate clutter in the bathroom, you might hang shampoo and soap dispensers on the wall. Your caregiver or loved one can refill them quickly if they run out.

10. Handheld Shower

Elders can bathe in the handheld showerhead, which is easy to install.

1. For emergencies, install a phone. It should be waterproof and at an appropriate height.
2. Incorporate doors that swing outward. This will make it easy to access in case of an accident involving an older adult falling near the door.
3. Label hot- and cold-water handles clearly so they don't get burned or freeze.
4. You won't have to go to the bathroom if there is a lip or hump near the door.
5. The bathroom must be clean and free from clutter.
6. These small improvements can dramatically reduce the risk of accidents for older adults and give them peace of mind. It will allow them to live independently and feel confident in their own homes.