1. Install grab bars and toilet rails
Most falls are the result of instability. By default, most seniors tend to reach for towel racks/bars to support themselves in the bathroom. This is not ideal. These bars are not designed to support an adult’s weight and actually increase the risk of falling. “By default, most seniors tend to reach for towel racks/bars to support themselves in the bathroom. This is not ideal. These bars are not designed to support an adult’s weight and actually increase the risk of falling.” One of the most beneficial bathroom aids that you can install is Grab bars or Grab rails. Grab bars should be positioned with due consideration. In other words, positioned within easy arm’s reach, alongside or even in the bathtub, shower, or toilet area to enable easier entry and exit of the bathtub, and increased balance control when using the toilet. They should be securely bolted to the wall, and able to bear the full weight of the user.
2. Install a raised toilet seat
Another major issue that comes into play when talking about essential bathroom aids for senior bathrooms is the ability to lower oneself onto the toilet seat. As time goes on, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain balance control when lowering yourself onto a traditional toilet seat. The positioning of a standard seat is simply too low for comfort or ease of use. A raised toilet seat is an easy solution. Raised toilet seats add an extra four inches to the seat height and usually come with supporting rails on either side, making it much easier and safer for seniors to lower themselves onto and off the toilet. To provide further assistance and more safety, we would recommend installing grab bars next to the toilet to counter any instability experienced when hoisting yourself off the seat.
3. Invest in a sturdy shower chair
Taking a shower can be one of the scariest, most vulnerable moments for older persons and people with mobility disabilities. Bath boards, shower chairs, or stools are specifically designed to make the shower experience easier and safer, particularly for those who struggle with stability or find it difficult to stand for lengthy periods of time. They are one of the best investments you will ever make. Designed to fit either in or over the bath they provide a safe, stable seating area for sitting whilst bathing or under the shower. Freeing the hands, and granting additional mobility without the risk of slipping. And as an added bonus granting you more privacy, independence, and ‘me time”.
4. Bath steps
Bath steps are a very useful, simple addition to make exit and entry into the bath a little easier. Available in a range of sizes, choose one that is sturdy and non-slip. The point is to provide you with a helping hand and a sense of stability. Our recommendation would be to use bath steps with handrails and a bath seat. So, you have the security of a stable grip for ascent and descent into the bath.
5. Non-slip mats
There are essentially 2 types of mats. Those used inside the bath and shower, and those used on the surrounding flat surfaces. Bathtub mats or shower mats are designed to be placed within the bath and shower area to provide added grip, safety, and security. Held firmly in place with suction cups, they feature a non-slip surface for added peace of mind, providing added grip and security whilst showering. “Wet floors or slippery tiles are amongst the leading causes of bathroom accidents. Anti-slip floor mats are a simple solution that significantly reduces the risk of a fall” Wet floors or slippery tiles are amongst the leading causes of bathroom accidents. Anti-slip floor mats are a simple solution that significantly reduces the risk of a fall, especially when stepping in and out of the bath or shower. They can also be used to stabilize the feet while standing and sitting, transferring to or from a wheelchair, and getting in and out of bed. The non-slip surface provides excellent grip and significantly reduces the potential of slipping accidents. Safety in the bathroom cannot be underestimated. It’s a valid consideration for anybody of any age regardless. And, it doesn’t take much. Just a few simple changes or additions and ease of mind, sense of stability, security, and freedom of movement, are restored. Not to mention dignity and independence. Would you like to see more? View our full range of bathroom accessories