Do you know that the majority of falls in homes happen in the bathroom? This is particularly so for the elderly population. Due to health issues and declining cognitive functions, they are usually the victims of slippery surfaces in the bathroom. With that said, we should do our part to minimize fall occurrences by ensuring bathroom safety for seniors. Follow these tips to keep your elderly loved ones safe in the bathroom today!
Add Grab Bars to Provide Support
Grab bars can provide support to your loved ones by helping them to maintain or regain their balance in the presence of wet floors. The bars can also provide a sense of security and reassurance by giving them something to hold on to. Grab bars can be installed in the shower and around the toilet entrances to allow seniors to navigate their way around the bathroom safely. A plus point of grab bars is that they are cost-effective and easy to install. However, precautions must still be taken. You should ensure that these bars are properly anchored and sturdy enough to hold a weight of up to 250 pounds.
Install Elevated Toilet Seats
Elevated toilet seats are our top choice for seniors with mobility difficulties. An increased toilet height will minimize bending which may potentially cause muscle injuries. Elevated toilet seats come in different heights and you can select one that provides the most comfort for your loved one. For extra support, some elevated toilet seats come with support handles to allow seniors to get up and sit down more easily. Some factors to look out for when finding the best elevated toilet seat are the thickness of the seats and the presence of clamping for support handles. You should also make certain that the seats are secure since flimsy elevated toilet seats can potentially cause injuries!
Get a Toilet Tissue Aid
Seniors with a limited range of motion may find it difficult to reach for the toilet paper or wipe themselves. Hence, toilet tissue aids aim to simplify the process of cleaning for your loved ones. The toilet tissue aid consists of an extendable curved handle that serves two functions: to grip toilet paper and to make cleaning oneself easier. Toilet tissue aids provide a sanitary experience while increasing your loved ones’ independence in the bathroom.
Use Anti-Slip Mats
When it comes to wet floors in the bathroom, using an anti-slip mat may seem like a no-brainer. But what most people do not take note of is the fact that their flooring may not be compatible with the anti-slip mat used. Several factors such as the texture, pattern, and material of your floor should be taken into consideration when selecting an anti-slip mat. If in doubt, always consult a professional. An anti-slip mat is crucial for preventing slips and falls. Hence, you need to choose the right one for it to work effectively.
Safety Measures at Discovery Village At Naples
Our elderly loved ones may need extra help with activities of daily living that we are not always able to give. It may even come to a point where we need to consider how to best provide a safe living environment for our loved ones at home. If you are thinking about moving your elderly loved one to a retirement community, we would like to invite you to tour our beautiful grounds at Discovery Village At Naples. Our senior living professionals have many years of experience and they are here to assuage your worries. You can rest easy knowing that under our team members’ care, your loved ones will be in good hands. Check out our senior living amenities and learn how our community’s safety measures can keep your loved one safe.
