As seniors age, certain daily tasks that were once effortless can become more challenging. One area where safety concerns often arise is the bathroom. Slippery floors, hard surfaces, and limited mobility can make this space hazardous for seniors. With some simple modifications and considerations, like hiring senior home care providers, it is possible to enhance bathroom safety for seniors and provide them with a comfortable and secure environment.
Start a Collection of Safety Tools
Investing in a collection of safety tools is a great initial step in reducing the risk of accidents in the bathroom. For instance, installing grab bars in the shower, bathtub, and near the toilet offers extra support to aging adults while they sit, stand, or move around. Non-slip mats are also helpful because they can be added inside or outside the tub, minimizing the risk of slipping and falling. Shower chairs or benches allow seniors to sit comfortably while they bathe, further reducing the risk of falls. Raising the toilet seat makes it easier to sit down and stand up again.
Remove as Much Clutter as Possible
Clearing the bathroom of unnecessary clutter is another helpful idea for preventing accidents. It is all too easy for bathrooms to collect things like old toiletries and items that aren’t useful in the space. Removing items that aren’t used on a daily basis clears space and helps to keep the bathroom safer. Storage solutions that keep necessary items contained help to ensure that the bathroom stays as clutter-free as possible.
Make Toiletries and Other Supplies Easy to Access
Having easy access to toiletries and other supplies helps seniors to maintain both independence and safety. Frequently used items should be stored on lower shelves or drawers, where they’re easier to access. Labeling containers, shelves, drawers, and even cabinets helps to make everything that much more accessible.
Consider Comfort, Too
Comfort and safety can go hand in hand for seniors. Temperature-regulating safety devices, like anti-scald devices, prevent burns but keep water warm enough to enjoy. Seniors might benefit from shower chairs and benches in the tub, of course, but it can also be helpful to have a stool or bench elsewhere in the bathroom for easy and comfortable seating. Nightlights offer a way to see in the dark, but they can also help aging adults to feel more comfortable, especially in the middle of the night.
Hire Senior Home Care Providers to Help
If additional assistance is needed, consider hiring senior home care providers. These professionals can offer support with bathing, grooming, and navigating the bathroom safely. They can provide companionship and help monitor any potential safety concerns. Elder care providers also help to keep seniors’ homes tidy and clean, which is another aspect of safety that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Improving bathroom safety for seniors means looking at all aspects of safety and doing as much as possible to reduce risk factors. Senior home care providers can help with all of these issues, ensuring that aging adults have the help they need to avoid injury in the bathroom.
The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior home care in Duluth, GA, and the surrounding areas. Call (770) 965-4004 for more information.
We provide elder care in Braselton, Buford, Dacula, Duluth, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Oakwood, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Barrow County, Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, Jackson County, North Fulton County.
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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