Supporting an Aging Parent with Bathroom Assistance
Many seniors struggle with using the bathroom, but it can be difficult to speak to your elderly loved one about the matter of toileting issues. It’s important to approach the issue with empathy and patience. While offering your loved one an extra hand for stability can be a good start, there are several other steps you can take to make toileting and bathing easier. In this article from Visiting Angels of Chelsea, we’ll discuss some key ways to help your loved one safely and comfortably use the bathroom.
Providing Seniors with Top-Quality In-Home Care
"The Visiting Angels branch in Chelsea was extremely helpful during our time with them. They were responsive towards our needs always. Suzie, my mom's caregiver, was so caring and gentle with my mom. They got along perfectly and Suzie quickly became part of our family. I highly recommend Visiting Angels to any family who is looking for a caregiver. My experience with the Chelsea office has been excellent. They are accommodating and responsive to your needs and Suzie is absolutely amazing!"
Bathroom Safety Solutions for Seniors
In order to help your loved one stay safe in the bathroom, it’s important to take proper precautions to prevent accidents before they happen. Here are three ways you can address potential hazards in the bathroom:
Address Potential Falls
Tile and wood floors can become slippery if they get wet or if there are loose rugs placed upon them. To prevent slips, you can add non-slip mats to the floor of your loved one’s bathroom and bathtub. Additionally, you should remove any clutter in the bathroom that your loved one may trip over. Night lights can also help your loved one navigate the bathroom safely if they need to get up in the middle of the night.
Prevent Burns and Shocks
Shower or sink water over 100 degrees can hurt your senior loved one and potentially even scald them if the temperature is high enough. Make sure that the water your loved one uses stays at a safe, tolerable temperature. Also, remember to keep bathroom appliances like hairdryers and electric razors dry and away from the sink in order to prevent electrical injuries.
Make Renovations
You can also take advantage of senior-friendly bathroom renovations to further assist your loved one. As an example, several companies make bathtub supports for the elderly that give them a stable place to hold onto when showering or bathing. High-wattage lights and higher toilet seats are also great additions that can make toileting easier for your loved one.
Get Help From a Professional Caregiver
Having an in-home care provider can greatly help your loved one if they are having difficulties using the bathroom on their own. At Visiting Angels of Chelsea, our compassionate caregivers offer bathroom support for seniors and can also provide your loved one with assistance for daily tasks like bathing, dressing, cooking, and light housekeeping. If your loved one has been experiencing mobility issues, we also offer our Safe and Steady Fall Prevention Program that is designed to address potential fall hazards in the home and provides seniors with mobility assistance.
Learn More About Visiting Angels Home Care
If you are interested in learning more about how you can get help caring for your elderly parent, reach out to us today at (617) 409-9039 or via our online contact form. We’re happy to offer you a complimentary home care evaluation to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your senior loved one’s care. We look forward to serving you and your loved one!