Avoiding Slips and Falls in the Bathroom

Author

Next Day Access

Posted on

Mar 15, 2023

Book/Edition

Colorado - Colorado Springs

When aging adults reach a point where they have accessibility concerns, it is time to consider remodeling their bathrooms to keep them safe. A simple fall could be very painful and debilitating for an aging adult. Here are a few tips to keep your aging loved one safe in their bathroom.

Install Grab Bars and Tension Mounted Poles

Aging adults with poor balance will try to steady themselves by grabbing a towel rack or wall-mounted sink. Neither is designed to hold a person’s body weight. Invest in sturdy grab bars, and safety poles. Install the grab bars on the wall around the toilet and in the shower. Make sure they are firmly bolted to the wall.

A newer concept for aging adults is the tension-mounted pole. It can be placed anywhere in the house where your aging loved one needs help with balance, but it is especially helpful in a bathroom, along with grab bars. The tension pole is a floor-to-ceiling metal rod with a no-slip handle in the middle of the bar, so your aging loved one can safely pull themselves up without injury.

Ensure the Bathroom has Slip Resistant Rugs and Mats

It is inevitable that while showering or bathing, the bathroom floors will end up wet. Make sure to place slip-resistant pads down in the shower and ensure any rugs outside the tub or shower are also slip-resistant.

Consider Investing in a Tub Conversion

One of the most challenging moves for an aging adult with accessibility concerns is stepping over the tub to shower or take a bath. A Tub to Shower conversion is a great solution for accessibility and safety. Tub conversions allows you turn your existing bathtub into a step-in shower. Please be aware that this type of renovation generally requires a Building Permit. Most of the One Day Bathroom companies are skipping this important step. 

There are many easy things you can do to ensure the safety of seniors in the bathroom and in their homes. Some can be done as a DIY project, or you can hire a professional to help with making things safer at home. Don’t put off taking some simple steps to prevent a life altering fall. 

 

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Next Day Access and may be reached at 719-426-2665

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