Be careful in the bathroom

You've had a busy day and know it's time to take a bath and hit the sheets. Ahh! It will feel so good! But, the fear of falling while bathing is very unnerving. There are nearly 200,000 bathroom accidents per year. Slipping and falling in the bathtub or shower are top on the list. People over the age of 75 are 4 times more likely die because of falls which happen in the home, than those who are 65-74 years of age. Forty percent of all seniors who are hospitalized for falls do not live longer than a year. So let's look at a few simple relative inexpensive ways to prevent falls in the bathroom.

Ideally, even if you are not disabled, it would be a good idea for every home to have at least one handicap accessible bathroom which allowed you to walk right into the shower stall with a floor that is flat. This will provide multiple options for you, your family and even visitors in your home.

Let's begin with preparing for the bath or shower. It is important to make sure there is no clutter on the floor which can, in its self cause a fall. A bath mat situated just outside the shower will help prevent sudden falls caused from wet feet slipping on slick floor surfaces as you exit the bathing area. Having towels within arm's length will allow the bather easy access to drying.

Hand Grips strategically placed and securely attached in the tub or shower area provide a quick secure way of steadying ones self while getting into or out of the tub or shower. Hand grips situated by the toilet are also a good idea to help seniors get to the standing position. It is important to have all hand grips attached securely to a wall, suction cup type hand grips easily lose their grip and are often times not safe.

Shower stools, transfer benches and bathtub benches come in many styles that comfortably fit in bathing areas. It is advisable to have a shower mat on the floor of the shower or tub to help keep secure footing while getting into and out of the tub/shower and while bathing. It is important to choose a solidly constructed shower chair that is rated with the correct weight limit of the person who will be using it.

Taking time to dry while still sitting can give the bather a chance to dry his/her feet and hands which will obviously help prevent slipping or losing one's grip on the hand grips.

Planning ahead and taking a few precautions can make bathing safe and easier for both the patient and the caregiver. May you always have a safe and relaxing bathing time (Jill Grant).