Creating a safe bathroom environment is essential for seniors to maintain their independence and avoid falls. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older.¹ Over 14 million, or 1 in 4 older adults report falling every year.² From that number, the National Institute of Aging (NIA) states that more than 80% of senior falls occur inside the bathroom.³
The bathroom is a risky place for older adults. Let's discuss how we can prevent falls and injuries before they happen. We've included several practical tips to create a safe bathroom environment.
Tip 1: Review the Floor Plan for Aging in Place
Review the walkway to/from the bathroom as well as the bathroom space as a whole. Are there obstacles or hazards in the path? Remove any unnecessary items that take up space and could potentially cause tripping hazards both in the walkway and the bathroom space.
Is the doorway wide enough for a walker or wheelchair? Accessible doorways are a minimum 32 inches wide. It is important to ensure there is adequate space for seniors to navigate with a cane, walker, or wheelchair.
Consider the flow of movement within the bathroom and make sure there is enough room to turn around comfortably. This can help prevent falls and make the bathroom more accessible. Evaluate the flooring in the walkway, bathroom and tub or shower. Be sure that these are non-slip surfaces.
Tip 2: Making the Tub/Shower Senior-Friendly
The tub and shower areas are particularly risky for seniors. To enhance safety, ensure the tub has a slip-resistant coating or mat. Adding a shower bench or seat can also provide a stable place for seniors to sit while bathing. Shower heads can be modified to add a handheld shower feature which is helpful for those sitting during the bathing process.
For more involved modifications, consider converting the bathtub to a walk-in shower with a low-level entry. This creates a safer method for seniors to enter and exit the shower. Additionally, a small ramp can be added for wheelchair accessibility. Slip resistant flooring is really important -- so important that we're mentioning it again. There are slip-resistant bathmats, coatings and flooring options to consider.
Tip 3: Grab Bars for Added Balance
Grab bars are a simple yet effective way to enhance bathroom safety. Install grab bars beside the toilet, inside the shower, and outside the shower to provide support and balance for seniors.
These bars can help prevent falls by offering a sturdy handhold when moving around the bathroom. Make sure the grab bars are securely mounted and can support a significant amount of weight.
Tip 4: Efficient Lighting for Better Visibility
Proper lighting is crucial in preventing falls and ensuring safety in the bathroom. Install bright lights with large, reachable switches make it easier for seniors to turn them on and off. Beware of shiny objects that create a glare.
Additionally, ensure the hallway leading to the bathroom is well-lit. Good visibility can help seniors navigate more easily and reduce the risk of tripping or falling. Adding night lights with a motion sensor ensure there is amply lighting for late night trips to the bathroom.
Tip 5: Selecting Senior Friendly Fixtures
Changing out fixtures, such as doorknobs and handles, to ones that are easier to reach, grasp and use. Lever handles are easier to grip than knows and twist handles. Faucet technology is also helpful for seniors. Consider the following updates:
Lever door handles
A sensory operated faucet
Change our vanity knobs or pulls with sturdy metal handles
Shower faucet lever handle
Tip 6: Choosing an Accessible Toilet Seat
Toilets can be challenging for seniors with mobility issues. An extended toilet seat at the right height can make sitting down and standing up much easier and safer for your loved one.
Additionally, choose a toilet paper dispenser that can be changed with one hand and ensure it is within a short arm's length from the toilet. This can reduce the need for reaching and bending, which can help prevent falls.
We're here to help the senior community with accessible bathroom transitions. It's doesn't have to be overwhelming. We are your your partner in creating a beautiful and safe bathroom for aging in place.
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