Bathroom Safety Tips: Creating a Secure Space for Seniors

January is National Bathroom Safety Awareness Month, and when it comes to home safety, the bathroom deserves some special attention. Bathrooms are typically designed with surfaces that become extremely slippery. They also have limited room to maneuver, making them a high-risk area for many seniors. Whether you’re an older adult yourself or a family member caring for an aging loved one, adapting the bathroom so that it’s safer can be life-changing. Here are some bathroom safety tips that are easy to implement, along with a few local resources around Chadds Ford to help you get started. 

Install Grab Bars

One of the most dangerous incidents for seniors that can occur in the bathroom is a fall, especially during or after a shower when surfaces become wet. Falling in the bathroom can lead to serious injuries, including hip fractures, head trauma, or internal injuries. To negate this risk, consider installing grab bars to offer stability. When grab bars are strategically placed, such as beside the toilet, in the shower, or by the sink, seniors can feel more confident navigating the room, knowing they have something secure to hold on to should they need help maneuvering around the bathroom. If you need help, local professionals like Mr. Handyman can help with installation to ensure everything is safely set. 

Use Non-Slip Mats

Another fall hazard in most bathrooms is rugs. While rugs can help keep feet warm on cold floors they can pose real risks for seniors. Traditional rugs without non-slip backing can slide across smooth bathroom floors, creating a major fall risk. Seniors should only use non-slip mats in the bathroom and should pick up step-out mats from the floor after bathing. In regards to the bathtub or shower, seniors should also use non-slip mats made of rubber inside the enclosure to prevent slipping. Look for options that have strong adhesive or suction to keep them in place. Market Street Hardware and Ace Hardware of West Chester offer a variety of options for your consideration. 

Raise the Toilet Seat

Many seniors and their families focus on the shower when it comes to bathroom safety, often overlooking the toilet. A higher toilet can make a big difference in comfort and safety, reducing the risk of falls when standing up. A higher toilet seat can also help save the back of a family caregiver who needs to assist their aging loved one on and off the toilet. Many local pharmacies, such as CVS or Walgreens, offer bathroom safety products, such as raised toilet seats, that you can easily fit into an existing toilet. You can also consider replacing your toilet with one that is comfortable. You can purchase such toilets at places like Home Depot in Glen Mills.

Improve Lighting

The last bathroom safety tip that is quick and easy to implement is to improve lighting. Bathrooms usually provide overhead lighting and some offer task lighting – lights on either side or above the mirror. Yet, lighting should not be underestimated, especially for seniors who use the bathroom at night. Start by swapping out dim bulbs for brighter, energy-efficient LED bulbs. Next, add motion sensor night lights or ones that automatically come on at dusk. Highlights offer gentle illumination and can help reduce the risk of falls at night. For your lighting needs, check out Brandywine Lighting Gallery in nearby Wilmington. 

At Visting Angels Chadds Ford, we understand that bathroom safety is a priority for seniors who want to stay independent at home. Our professional caregivers provide compassionate support with personal care, including safe assistance with bathing, toileting, and dressing. With our vigilant caregivers at your loved one’s side, your loved one can get ready for their day with confidence and with a lower risk of slips or falls. In addition to our personal care services, we also help with everyday routines, so seniors can feel empowered to age in place without fear of injury. Whether it’s lending a steady hand or assisting with mobility challenges, our caregivers are available to ensure that seniors stay safe, supported, and secure right in the comfort of their own homes. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 484-428-6636.