National Bath Safety Month falls in January and is an excellent time to talk about bathroom safety with your parents. Did you know that approximately 80% of older adults are injured when they fall in the bathroom? The smaller space and harder surfaces increase the risk of severe injuries during a fall.
In the CDC report, women are more likely to fall in the bathroom. Bruises and cuts are the most common injuries, but there are also a high number of head and neck injuries in bathroom falls. Learn more about these facts about bathroom falls to keep your mom safe.
Non-Slip Flooring Exists
Many bathroom floors are made of linoleum or tile. Both get extremely slippery when they’re wet. Replace these slippery surfaces with non-slip flooring. Vinyl planks are non-slip when wet and look like wood, stone, or ceramic tile, so they suit bathroom décor.
Older Adults Are More Likely to Get Injured Near the Toilet
Around half of all bathroom injuries in those 85 or older occurred near a toilet. Standing up or sitting down on the toilet can be harder to manage when chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, arthritis, and osteoporosis are present.
To prevent injuries on or near a toilet, install grab bars at the side of the toilet and on the wall behind the toilet tank. A raised toilet seat helps make it easier to stand and sit, as less effort is needed when standing back up.
Accessibility Matters
Most people think of bathroom safety as having grab bars and non-slip flooring. There’s more to it than that. You need to consider the accessibility of items, too. To reach her shampoo and conditioner, your mom has to reach a high shelf on a shower window sill.
Instead of risking a fall by having her reach, move them to an area that’s more accessible. You want to keep her from having to reach up or stretch across the tub or shower.
Make Sure She Has Support at Home
If your mom gets lightheaded after taking her medications, hire a caregiver to be in the home while she showers and uses the toilet. Home care aides can help your mom get in and out of the shower. They’re available if your mom feels lightheaded and needs help standing up or sitting down on the toilet.
Talk to a home care specialist to learn more about the benefits of caregivers for personal care. A caregiver available to help with hygiene, grooming, and toileting helps lower the risk of a fall in the bathroom. Call a home care agency today.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering home care in Fitchburg, WI please contact the caring staff at Agape Senior Services Madison today. (608) 841-1004
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