More than 200,000 people are injured in bathroom accidents every year, and most of these accidents are the result of someone slipping and falling. Since bathroom floors can be wet and slippery, and bathrooms are typically small, falls usually result in a person hitting something hard. While people of all ages accidentally fall each year, bathrooms can be especially hazardous for seniors.
There are several preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood that someone you love will slip and fall in the bathroom.
They include:
- Installing a Walk-In Tub
- Installing a Raised Toilet Seat
- Investing in Better Lighting
- Using Handrails or Bars
- Putting Down Non-Slip Mats
- Placing Shelves at Eye Level
How Walk-In Tubs Reduce the Risk of Falling in the Bathroom
With a walk-in tub, you only have to step over a low threshold to enter and exit, meaning you don’t have to lift your leg high to climb into the tub. This makes it easier for seniors to maintain their balance.
They also come with an ADA compliant seat, which means when you get out of the tub, you only have to stand from a seated position, not from the floor. This helps you maintain your balance when getting out of the tub. They also allow you to stay seated when bathing, there is no need to stand for extended periods of time.
Another benefit is that they come with handrails that give you something to hold on to, keeping you safe when sitting and standing. Non-slip flooring also increases safety by gently gripping the bottoms of your feet, adding extra stability when standing.
See the many other safety benefits of installing a walk-in bathtub here.
The Benefits of Installing Raised Toilet Seats
Many falls take place when using the toilet. Typically, it is the result of lowering down to sit on a low-lying toilet and falling in the process. With a raised toilet seat, you don’t have to lower your body down as far. It’s also easier to get up from a raised toilet because you don’t have to bend your knees as much.
The Benefits of Installing Motion Sensors
Good lighting is essential. It is too easy to forget about something that might be lying on the floor before you trip and fall. Dim lighting also results in falls, especially among older adults who have vision issues. Good lighting also makes it much easier to see if the floor is wet and slippery. The largest benefit of light motion sensors is that they turn on without even having to reach for the light switch. It’s an effortless way to illuminate a room upon entry.
How Handrails Prevent Falls
Handrails offer something sturdy to hold onto when getting in and out of the bathtub as well as when sitting down or getting up from the toilet.
Where to Place Non-Slip Mats
If the floor is dry, you can slip on a slippery rug, even if they have a rubber back. Avoid this problem by using non-slip rugs by the toilet, next to the bathtub, and in front of the sink. These are rugs with a special bottom that prevents them from moving around. Wearing slippers with non-slip soles also helps.
Why You Should Rethink Shelf Placement
Shelf placement might be the last thing you think about, but if you’re looking for something too high to reach on bare feet then you have to stand on your toes or use a step stool. If you’re looking for something low to the ground, you could fall over. Therefore, place shelves at eye level and make sure everything you need is within easy reach.
