Your bathroom is supposed to be a haven where you can enjoy a relaxing bath after a long, exhausting day. But as you age, this vital part of your home can be a safety hazard. This is especially true if you experience shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, and mobility issues.
The best way to minimize the risk of slipping and falling in the bathroom is to install safety equipment. Here are some that you can add to your space, especially if you have mobility problems or are living with an elderly loved one:
– Shower Chairs
Some seniors have issues standing for a long time, especially those with musculoskeletal problems. The heat of the bath can also make some feel lightheaded. To ensure everyone’s safety while taking a shower, you can have them sit right in the shower or tub area and then step in and sit down.
You can also invest in a high-quality shower chair, also known as a transfer bench. Make sure to purchase only from a reputable home medical supplies store to ensure the bathroom safety equipment’s quality.
– Grab Bars
Grab bars are some of the most popular bathroom safety equipment. These are helpful for those with balance or joint issues. They are typically mounted to the tub’s side and other awkward angles where people tend to hold onto, like faucets, counters, and walls. By installing them at various heights and angles, you can ensure a safe grip and firm support.
Note that your grab bars must be installed in a way that they are properly mounted through the drywall behind the tiles. Hire a professional if you are unfamiliar with proper installation.
– Handheld Showerheads
If you are living with a senior who needs to sit in the shower, consider installing an adjustable handheld showerhead. This tool has a head that can be pulled closer to the elderly. Therefore, you can prevent your loved one from trying to stand up during the washing process and minimize the risk of falling or slipping.
On the other hand, if you or your other family members can stand in the shower, a handheld showerhead can also be helpful. You can rinse and wash without having to maneuver, which can prevent you from falling.
– Raised Toilet Seats
The act of lowering onto a standard-sized toilet seat and getting up can be difficult for patients with mobility issues. It affects the knees and hips and forces them to throw their upper body weight forward and use momentum, which puts them at risk and increases the possibility of a fall.
The good news is that you can easily prevent any injuries by adding a raised toilet seat to your bathroom. It adds from 2-4 inches to the toilet’s seat level height to significantly reduce pressure on joints. You can also select one with side handles for additional assistance.
Conclusion
Whether you are living with a senior or you are a patient with mobility issues, your safety should be your top priority at all times, especially in the bathroom, where you are at risk of slips and falls. Keep everyone in your home safe by adding the proper safety equipment to your bathroom, depending on your medical condition and needs. You can reach out to healthcare professionals for advice to make sure you buy the best equipment for you.
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