We don’t often think about bathing as a high-risk activity, but for seniors, it can be. As a loved one or caregiver, it is vital that you are aware of the dangers of bathing for seniors.
It is so easy for a senior to slip or fall, but it is just as easy to prevent these accidents. Here are a few great safety tips for your seniors and bath time.
Building a Safer Bathroom Environment
Non-Slip Adhesives
You can find non-slip tape, strips, and stickers that are attached to the bottom of the tub. There are many colors and patterns you can choose from to make it more fun and decorative.
These are great for people who may be unsteady on their feet or have mobility concerns. You can add them to areas of the floor that may become wet, as well.
Handrails
You can find safety handrails for the bathtub or shower wall, the side of the tub, and next to the toilet. You may want to consider adding the non-slip tape to the bars for extra security if they don’t come with it.
These can be installed permanently and provide a great way for people to lower and lift themselves out of the tub, steady themselves while in the shower, and assist them when using the toilet.
Transfer Seat
Having a chair or bench beside the tub can make all the difference for a senior, This can allow them to ease into the tub from a sitting position.
Getting into the tub without having to lift their legs is much easier, and can prevent slipping and falling. It’s also easier to get out, as they can go from the tub to the seat, and stay there to get dry.
Walk-in Tubs
For those with mobility concerns, you may want to consider removing the old tub and replacing it with a walk-in tub. This allows them to bathe independently.
These easy-access tubs have a seat and door that seals. They are ideal for anyone living on their own or who only needs a little assistance with bathing.
Shower Stall
If your loved one is finding it too difficult to get in and out of a bathtub, consider removing it and putting in a shower stall. These can take up less space and are often more eco-friendly.
Add a bench and some guardrails and it’s the perfect solution for your aging loved one. They can sit in the shower and you can even use a wheeled chair for them to easily get in and out.
Mind the Water Temperature
Older people may not be as sensitive to hot and cold as they once were. It’s important that they are not scalded or showing or bathing in freezing water.
For those with memory concerns, you can put safety locks on the taps. These can be found in most home improvement stores, or online. Often sold as child safety locks for tubs.
Get Rid of Clutter
Too much stuff can simply be a nuisance. Items like stands, tables, small cabinets, and other portable items should be kept elsewhere. If there are children in the same home, get rid of toys and loose mats that can slide.
Your bathroom needs to be easily accessed, so no clothes, stools, or other objects that block passage. Even the clutter in the tub, like bottles, razors, soap, and other items can all cause problems.
Bathroom Maintenance
Make sure the lighting is good, there are no broken tiles, loose railings, or other hazards that can cause someone to trip or fall. Keep breakable items like drinking glasses, bottles, or others safely out of the way.
Make sure the sink is firmly attached as people will often lean on it to move through the space. Adjust the toilet for easy accessibility, like raising the seat and attaching handrails.
Smart Safety Planning
Losing independence can be emotionally challenging for seniors, which is why creating a safe bathroom environment is so important. The most effective approach to preventing falls combines physical modifications with emergency preparedness.
Even with the best safety modifications in place, accidents can still occur. A medical alert system provides essential backup protection, particularly in bathrooms where falls are most common and help may not be immediately available. Waterproof devices ensure assistance is accessible during bathing, while automatic fall detection can summon help even if someone is unconscious or unable to reach the button.
Bathroom safety isn’t complicated, but it requires thoughtful planning. By combining preventive modifications with reliable emergency support, you can help your loved one maintain their independence while ensuring help is always within reach when needed most.
