As you look to modify your home for accessibility and ease for yourself or a loved one, the bathroom is one area that requires close attention. More than one-third of people over the age of 65 slip and fall every year, but 80 percent of those falls occur in the bathroom. Here are a few tips to help ensure bathroom safety and even provide you with peace of mind.
1. Install Grab Bars – While a small addition to any bathroom, they can make a big difference in the safety of a bathroom. The grab bars can be installed in a shower or by a toilet to help a person leverage themselves or maintain balance. We offer a wide variety of grab bars some that are discreet in their design but provide that peace of mind and support.
2. Non-Slip Maps – Adding a non-slip mat to a tub or shower can help minimize fall risks in the bathroom. Be sure to also include non-slip rugs and mats outside of the tub and shower to ensure safety when entering and exiting the tub or shower.
3. Keep Things within Reach – One way to prevent falls or slips is to have everything within reach. Adding shower caddies or keeping things on the bathroom counter can help seniors get what they need without having to strain themselves. One other thing to consider is installing shampoo and body wash dispensers so they don’t have to wrangle with bottles and the risk of dropping them and trying to retrieve them.
4. Portable Shower – If traditional methods of bathing are found to be too difficult for you or your loved one consider a portable shower. Designed to be set up anywhere with access to warm water, it can be configured to meet your needs and is easily transportable. If you’re not looking to modify your entire bathroom with a roll-in shower, a portable shower is a great option for you.
5. Doors swinging to the Outside – One last thing to consider if you’re looking to update or modify your bathroom is having the door swing to the outside rather than inside the bathroom. If someone was to fall they could potentially end up blocking the door and access to help them can be difficult.
With a few simple additions and adjustments, you can help ensure your bathroom is designed for safety and is easy-to-use. If you’re looking for more tips or a free estimate to help keep your bathroom safe, contact us here. We’re here to help you design a home without barriers.
