According to the latest investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 230,000 people are injured in the bathroom every year. Most of those injuries are caused by falling, with those who are aged 65 or older having the highest injury.
1. Install the grab bar
The grab bar is an indispensable tool for the safety of the elderly care bathroom.
They perform two essential functions. First, they give your loved one something to grip when moving in and out of the tub or getting on and off the toilet.
Second, in the case of a fall, grab bars will be there for your loved one to grab before falling.
3. Improve Accessibility
Making sure that commonly used items are within easy reach is essential for areas like bathrooms where the risk of slipping or falling is heightened.
This is especially important in the shower/bathtub. Make sure that soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels, and any other bathing items are within easy reach.
4. Remove Obstacles
Bathroom safety can be improved by removing items that are easily tripped over. One of the biggest risks for older people is tripping over the side of their bathtub.
Installing a walk-in shower or walk-in bathtub can prevent this from happening.
5. Reduce Risk of Over-Exertion
Overexertion is the No. 2 most common cause of injuries in the bathroom, behind falls, according to the CDC study.
Consider installing a secure bathing seat and a raised seat for your loved one’s toilet, to help your loved one avoid over-exerting him or herself.
6. Improve Visibility
For many elderly people, frequent urination – especially at night – is a common complaint.
By installing night lights that illuminate the walkway from the bedroom to the bathroom, you reduce the chance of a fall or injury.
7. Prevent Hot Water Burns
Elderly people have thinner, more delicate skin and can take longer to notice hot temperatures.
