Best Tips for a Senior-Proof Bathroom

According to statistics, one-in-four elderly people suffer from a fall every year. This can result in serious injuries, which triggers visits to the emergency room, and in severe cases, hospitalizations. In fact, not only do falls have physical effects, they can also cause a crisis of confidence. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to provide safe spaces to seniors and the best place to start is the bathroom. After all, most of the falls happen there. Listed below are some great tips for making a senior-proof bathroom.

• Update lighting

First things first, you should install proper lighting when you want to ensure bathroom safety for the elderly. Poor lighting in the bathroom will automatically increase the risk of falls. The lighting should be bright enough to help seniors see easily, but not too bright that it is blinding. The latter could cause dizziness and throw people off balance.

• Add safety rails and grab bars

When it comes to making a senior-proof bathroom, you have to add safety rails and grab bars. These are available for the toilet, bathtub, and shower. Shower safety rails and grab bars come in handy for seniors because they can use them to maintain their balance when they step in and out of the shower or tub. Make sure they are installed at the right height and are easy to reach to fulfill their purpose.

• Organize and de-clutter

Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, shower gel, toothpaste—all of these things are considered essential. But having too many items increase the risk of falls. Lots of products in the bathroom means something can get knocked down. Seniors have limited mobility and their attempts to pick things up can lead to a fall. It is better to organize your bathroom and de-clutter, so only essentials remain and chances of a fall go down.

• Install a walk-in bathtub

If you want to promote shower safety for the elderly, you need to have senior-friendly shower equipment. Navigating a bathtub is immensely difficult, particularly for seniors, as stepping in and out can be hazardous. This is where a walk-in bathtub for seniors comes in handy. They are easy to access, which makes them the perfect choice for people with limited mobility.

• Keep items within reach

A simple and easy way to improve bathroom safety for seniors is to make sure everything is easily accessible and handy. If possible, everything should be kept between waist and shoulder height. This means they would not have to bend over, or reach overhead, which minimizes the chances of accidents and falls.

• Use non-slip mats

Sure, bath mats, bathroom rugs, and toilet mats are great for making a bathroom warm and cozy, but they can be a huge hazard for the elderly. It is best to get rid of any mats that don’t come with a non-slip backing. Opt for rubberized, non-slip floor mats that don’t slide when you step on them.

With these tips, you will be able to make a senior-proof bathroom in no time and keep your loved ones safe.