Falling over. It’s easy to do, and even more common as we age. In fact, falls are the most common cause of unintentional injury for people aged 65 and over in Queensland.
Medication, weakening muscles and reflexes, and changes in sensory perception can cause older people to be unsteady on their feet. Add these factors to the common slip and fall hazards in bathrooms and you have a recipe for potentially serious injury!
Here are five ideas to make bathrooms safer for the elderly, disabled, and their carers.
1. Add grab rails
One of the most common ways to make bathrooms safer, hand rails need to be strong and functional. Adding them in strategic places such as in showers, near and basins can assist with mobility, and take the burden of carers needing to lift or physically move patients. Hand or grab rails can come with anti-slip grip material, and with sleek silver finishes look just like any other bathroom accessory.
2. Remodel your shower
Many older Queensland homes were built with a shower over a tub, which can be quite dangerous to step in and out of every day. A wide, curb-less shower will allow wheelchairs or people with mobility issues easier access to their daily shower. Adding a seat and grab bars are additional safety options, as is installing a shower head at the right level for you.
3.Take a look at your toilet
Toilets for the elderly can be at the wrong height once mobility issues set in. Consult your healthcare professional about raising or lowering your toilet, and adding adjustable and secure safety frames to assist with getting up and down.
4. Add non-slip flooring
Rubber, cork and vinyl are all soft-fall options that can be added to bathrooms.
5. Recreate your cabinets
Your builder can update bathroom cabinetry so that it is easy to reach the medications and toiletries you need. Lower cabinets, rounded edges, and soft touch doors that are easy to open and close – and easy to access when manoeuvring around walkers and wheelchairs – can make all the difference.
In addition to improving elderly safety in the home, your bathroom makeover can leave you with a refreshed, stylish space that you’ll enjoy having the freedom to spend time in. Ask the Forever At Home team for information on how to get started on modifying or renovating yours or your loved one’s bathroom.