10 Must-Have Bathtub Safety Equipment for Seniors
Bathing can be a dangerous activity for seniors, as slips and falls can often occur. This is why it is important to have the proper safety equipment in place to minimize the risk of an accident. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 must-have bathtub safety equipment for seniors. Keep reading to learn more!
Making your bathtub safe for seniors doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it can be downright easy with the right equipment. Here are 10 must-haves for keeping your loved ones safe in the tub:
1) A sturdy handrail
Most of us take being able to get in and out of the shower for granted. But for the elderly, this simple task can be a real challenge. Slippery surfaces and a lack of support can make it difficult to maintain balance, and serious injuries can occur as a result. That’s why it’s so important to install a sturdy handrail right outside the shower. This will provide a much-needed sense of security, making it much easier for the elderly to get in and out of the bathtub independently. In addition, a handrail can also help to prevent falls when getting in and out of the shower.
2) Non-slip mats or strips
As we age, our risk of falling increases. This is due to several factors, including a decrease in muscle mass, a decline in balance and coordination, and decreased sensation in the feet. Slipping while taking a shower can be especially dangerous, as the hard surface can lead to serious injuries. For this reason, many elderly people choose to install non-slip mats or strips inside their showers. These mats provide a textured surface that helps to increase traction and prevent slipping. In addition, they are often made of soft materials that can help to cushion a fall. As a result, non-slip mats can play an important role in keeping the elderly safe from falls.
3) A bench or chair that provides stability
Most people take showers without giving much thought to the design of the shower itself. However, for elderly people, the design of the shower can be a matter of safety. In particular, a shower bench or chair can provide much-needed stability, preventing falls and injuries. A bench can also be useful for those who have difficulty standing for long periods of time. By providing a place to rest, a bench can help make showering a more comfortable experience. Of course, not all benches are created equal. When shopping for a shower bench, it is important to choose one that is slip-resistant and easy to clean. With so many options on the market, finding the perfect shower bench is easy.
4) Grab bars inside shower for extra support
Most of us take showers without giving much thought to how we do it. We reach for the soap, lather up, and rinse off without a second thought. However, for elderly people or those with mobility issues, showering can be a real challenge. Simple tasks like reaching for a bar of soap or getting in and out of the shower can be difficult or even impossible. That’s where shower grab bars can come in handy. By providing extra support, grab bars can help people maintain their balance and prevent dangerous falls. In addition, grab bars can be used to help people get in and out of the shower seat. Whether you’re caring for an elderly family member or just want to be prepared for a future injury, installing grab bars in your shower is a smart idea. Of course, if they have already moved into senior living with the Chelsea at Bald Eagle (or another facility), their bathrooms may already have these, and other adaptations, in place to ensure that they can shower safely.
5) A non-slip shower curtain or enclosure
As anyone who has ever stepped into a slippery shower knows, it can be a bit of a challenge to keep your footing. This is especially true for seniors, who may have limited mobility or balance issues. A non-slip shower curtain or enclosure can help to create a safe and stable space for seniors to shower. The textured surface helps to prevent slips and falls, and the sturdy construction can provide support if someone does need to lean on it. In addition, a non-slip shower curtain or enclosure can help to create a sense of privacy and dignity for seniors who may feel uncomfortable about being seen in the nude. For all these reasons, a non-slip shower curtain or enclosure is an essential item for any senior citizen.
6) Temperature control to avoid scalding water
Every year, thousands of seniors are injured in accidents involving hot water. Whether it’s a slip in the tub or a scald from a too-hot shower, these accidents can cause serious injuries. That’s why it’s important to take steps to ensure your elderly loved ones stay safe in the bathroom. One way to do this is to install a shower valve that allows you to control the water temperature. This way, you can set the perfect temperature for your loved one, and avoid the risk of scalding. Additionally, it’s important to have grab bars installed near the shower and toilet. These will provide your loved one with support and stability, reducing the risk of falls. By taking some simple precautions, you can help keep your elderly loved ones safe from harm.
7) Lighting for better visibility
When it comes to shower safety for the elderly, lighting is key. A well-lit shower can help prevent slips and falls, and it also makes it easier to spot potential hazards. For example, an elderly person who is showering in a dimly lit bathroom may not be able to see a puddle of water on the floor or a bar of soap that has fallen just outside the shower. Good lighting can also help to make a small bathroom feel larger and more open, which can be helpful for someone who is feeling unsteady on their feet. There are a number of easy ways to improve the lighting in a bathroom, such as installing brighter light bulbs or using reflective surfaces to bounce light around the room. By taking some simple steps to improve the lighting in a bathroom, we can help make showers safer for elderly people.
8) A communication device in case of an emergency
As people age, their risk of suffering a fall increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every four Americans aged 65 or older falls each year. Falls can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones and head injuries, and can lead to a loss of independence. One of the most dangerous places for an elderly person to fall is in the shower. Slippery surfaces and lack of support make showers a common site of falls. However, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of falling in the shower. One option is to install a communication device, such as a waterproof necklace or bracelet, that can be used to summon help in case of an emergency. Another is to install grab bars near the shower entrance and inside the shower area. Grab bars provide stability and support, making it easier to get in and out of the shower safely. By taking some simple precautions, seniors can minimize their risk of falling in the shower.
9) Low-mounted shower head
One way to make showering safer for the elderly is to install a detachable shower sprayer that can be mounted at a lower height. This way, they can sit on a shower chair while rinsing off, reducing the risk of injury. In addition, detachable shower sprayers are much easier to use than traditional showerheads, making it possible for seniors to maintain their independence longer. Whether you’re caring for an aging parent or simply want to make your own bathroom more Age-Friendly, installing a detachable shower sprayer is a small but significant change that can make a big difference.
10) Soap and shampoo dispensers that are easy to reach
Another way to help make showering safe for seniors is to install soap and shampoo dispensers that are easy to reach. This way, they won’t have to bend down or stretch to reach these items, which could lead to a fall. In addition, these dispensers can help to prevent slips and falls by eliminating the need to step out of the shower to grab a towel. By taking these simple measures, you can help to keep your elderly loved ones safe while they enjoy a peaceful and relaxing shower.
Showering can be a difficult and dangerous task for seniors, but by taking some simple precautions we can help to reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Installing grab bars, a communication device, and low-mounted shower head are all easy ways to make showers safer for elderly people. Additionally, placing soap and shampoo dispensers within reach can help to prevent slips and falls. By taking these simple steps, we can help to keep our loved ones safe while they enjoy a relaxing shower.
