Keeping seniors safer in the bathroom is a huge project. Part of what helps family caregivers to make the bathroom safer is understanding what the hazards are. Senior home care providers can offer a lot of help for families who want to make sure that aging adults are as safe as possible in their bathrooms.
Install Grab Bars
Grab bars offer support and stability in the bathroom. They can be installed anywhere in the bathroom, like around the toilet, in the tub, and in any areas where seniors need additional support. The bars need to be installed securely so that they can support someone’s weight if they do fall.
Use Non-slip Rugs and Mats
Bathroom floors tend to be slippery in general, but then slippery bathmats and rugs can make the situation worse. It’s vital to choose floor coverings that have a non-slip backing. Keeping these mats and rugs clean is also important, which is something that home care providers can help seniors do.
Consider a Walk-in Shower
If it’s in the budget, swapping a tub or shower stall with a high wall for a walk-in shower is an excellent idea. Walk-in showers make it safer and easier for seniors to enter the stall. It’s also a good idea to put in a shower chair or bench so that seniors can sit and bathe.
Adjust the Lighting
Proper lighting is important in any room in the house, but especially in the bathroom. Good lighting helps seniors spot potential safety hazards. Lighting that is too bright can create glare or shadows, however, so there’s a balance. Motion-sensing lighting allows seniors to focus on what they need to do rather than looking for light switches.
Use a Raised Toilet Seat
When it’s more difficult for seniors to sit down and stand up from the toilet, it might be time to install a raised toilet seat. Seats with armrests offer additional support and give seniors something to lean on when they need to. Raised toilet seats are available in a range of heights, so seniors may want to experiment to find the right height.
Adjust Water Temperature
Scalds and burns are more likely for seniors as they age. Adjusting the temperature on the water heater can be a good idea. Lowering the temperature just a few degrees doesn’t affect comfort, but can reduce the risk of a burn. Anti-scald kits are something that family caregivers can install also. These kits automatically regulate water temperature and prevent sudden temperature changes.
Make Essentials Easy to Access
It’s so easy for bathroom items to get out of hand. Toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials need to be well-organized and easy for seniors to access. Frequently used items need to be within arm’s reach so that seniors don’t have to put themselves in unsafe positions.
Use a Shower Bench or Chair
Whether seniors are using a shower stall or a tub, a shower chair can be a huge safety device. These chairs let seniors sit int he shower, reducing the risk of slipping and falling. For seniors who are experiencing fatigue or weakness, they can rest while they also bathe.
As seniors age, their ability to stay safe in the bathroom may change. Paying attention to bathroom safety is something that family caregivers need to prioritize and senior home care providers can be a huge help. They understand what seniors need to be safer in the bathroom and can help implement safety devices.
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 Johns Creek, 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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