How could something that’s so comforting and relaxing, like a nice, warm bath, be one of the greatest dangers to seniors? The truth is, combining slick surfaces, slippery shampoo and very warm water creates the perfect storm for a fall danger – one of the most severe risks to older people.
January is set aside as National Bath Safety Month, and it’s a great opportunity for both training and assessment to ensure that elderly personal care in a bathroom environment is as safe as possible.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that about 370 people of all ages suffer tub or shower-related injuries every single day in the USA. Because most falls in the home occur in the bathroom, AARP recommends taking the following preventative measures for senior bathroom safety:
- Put in grab bars for the toilet, shower, and tub
- Install non-skid tile or use non-skid bath mats
- Adjust the temperature of the home’s hot water heater to 120 degrees F or less to prevent scalds
- Provide a transfer bench to get in and out of the bathtub if the older adult is susceptible to falling when stepping over the tub wall
- Provide a bath chair to allow bathers to sit while bathing
- Apply no-slip strips to the bathtub and shower floor, or provide a slip-resistant mat
- Wipe up any water spills on the floor immediately
It’s also a wise idea to assess whether it might be worthwhile for a senior to utilize a mobile commode, which may be put at a bedside to ease nighttime bathroom needs. Bedside commodes can reduce the chance of evening falls, and can additionally be placed directly over the toilet, which is generally sturdier than a raised toilet seat. Features to look for when buying a commode:
- Non-removable armrests
- Rubber tips on the legs instead of wheels
- A frame that is sturdy
- Both a pail (with lid) and a sleeve (for use over the toilet)
Simple, basic commodes can cost anywhere between $60 and $250, although more complex, specialized commodes, such as those that have tilting mechanisms, can run as much as $3,000.
AARP also provides a handy bathroom checklist with design instructions which will help seniors and their families make the most appropriate home modification decisions to make it safe to take a bath.
Hillendale Home Care can also help with bathroom safety for older adults. We can provide an in-home safety evaluation and suggestions, and by providing expert, hands-on support at bathtime, can help ensure that seniors remain safe throughout all of their bathroom needs. Our elderly personal care is always delivered with the utmost respect and regard for dignity and privacy. Contact us at 925.933.8181 to learn more about how a caregiver in Pleasanton and surrounding areas can help with senior bathroom safety. Click here to view our full service area.
