6 ways to make a bathroom safer
6 ways to make a bathroom safer
Homes should be safe havens, but each year, injuries in and around the home contribute to millions of medical visits and many fatalities.
Although anywhere in a home can be the scene of an accident, bathrooms tend to be the most dangerous room in the house. Slippery tile, the presence of water, stockpiled medications, and many sharp and hard edges in a small space pose several hazards in the bathroom, particularly for young children and people ages 65 and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that falls, which can result in serious injuries such as hip fractures and head trauma, are the cause of 80 percent of all bathroom accidents.
With some easy modifications, many bathroom accidents are preventable.
Discard old medications
Clean out the medicine cabinet, removing old or expired medications, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. This reduces the likelihood of medication confusion and does not put potentially harmful pills and syrups into the hands of children.
Utilize transfer benches and shower seats
A transfer bench can help reduce injuries that occur when trying to climb over a tub wall. Benches are placed outside of the tub, and a person sits, then swings his or her legs over the ledge. Transfer benches can also be used in conjunction with shower seats. This is a chair or bench that allows people to sit while they shower.
Reduce slippery surfaces
Wet tile is a recipe for slick conditions. Bath rugs with rubber backing can provide traction in the bathroom, as can nonslip mats placed on the floor of the bathtub or shower. Water-resistant flooring made from recycled rubber is another option. It is softer and less slippery than traditional tile flooring.
Install lever-style fixtures
Round knobs in the bathroom can be difficult to grasp, especially for the elderly or those with arthritis. Lever-style fixtures are easier to maneuver and can help alleviate scalding from not being able to adequately adjust the water temperature.
Install grab bars
Properly installed grab bars around the shower and toilet area can provide leverage and stability. AARP states that many injuries to seniors occur when they are attempting to sit on or get up from the toilet. Grab bars or an elevated toilet seat can help.
Install motion-detecting lights
These lights turn on automatically upon detecting movement, making them beneficial for people who routinely visit the bathroom in the middle of the night. Adequate illumination can also help reduce fall risk.
Bathroom safety should be a priority. Various modifications can make bathrooms safer for people of all ages.