Everybody needs to go into the bathroom multiple times during a day, but seniors in particular can face some significant hazards while they’re there. Slippery surfaces, bad lighting, clutter, and more can cause big problems for aging adults. Understanding these possible problems allows family caregivers to resolve them before they cause serious injury and personal care at home is one solution that helps immensely.
Inadequate Lighting
Bad lighting in the bathroom is a huge problem for seniors. It makes safe navigation much more difficult, which can lead directly to issues like tripping and other injuries. When seniors can’t see obstacles, it’s a lot easier for them to have trouble. Bright LED lighting is a good idea in bathrooms. It’s also a good idea to consider adding nightlights that are on continually.
Challenges with the Showerhead
Traditional showerheads are typically not a problem for most people. But as seniors age and their needs change, a traditional showerhead may not meet those needs. Seniors who use a shower chair, for instance, may find that they have to strain while using the existing showerhead. Using a handheld showerhead with a longer hose and adjustable settings makes a world of difference. It also makes it easier for personal care at home to help seniors shower safely.
Scalding from Hot Water
Hot water is a huge risk for seniors. Senior skin is more sensitive to hot temperatures and the skin is much thinner than it used to be. This means that it can be more difficult for seniors to gauge temperature when showering or filling the tub. Changing the temperature on the water heater greatly reduces the risk of scalding. Another idea is to install anti-scald devices on faucets, keeping seniors safe from too-hot water.
Bathmats
Bathmats seem like they would be a safety device for seniors, but they can quickly turn into a hazard. If the bathmat is slippery or isn’t properly secured, it can bunch up, slide, or otherwise become a tripping hazard. Home care providers can take stock of whether bathmats are helping or hurting in the bathroom, ensuring that seniors are as safe as possible while they bathe.
Too Much Clutter
Clutter anywhere is a big problem for aging adults, but it can be especially hazardous in the bathroom. It’s worth the effort to go through the bathroom and determine what doesn’t need to be there and then remove those items. Minimizing clutter is an easy way to reduce the risk of accidents. Putting only the truly essential items back in the bathroom ensures that seniors have the room they need to be as safe as possible.
Taking the right steps for safety in the bathroom is a vital task. Personal care at home can offer seniors practical assistance while bathing and they can help to keep up with how safe the bathroom is in general. Being proactive about bathroom safety is something that can help seniors to continue to age in place and live independently for a long time to come.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home in Concord, CA please contact the caring staff at Health is Wealth Home Care Agency, LLC. (925) 446-4003
Health is Wealth Home Health Agency is a top provider of home health services in Contra Costa, Alameda, Solano, Sonoma, Napa, San Francisco, and Marin Counties, including the towns of Concord, Sacramento, Vacaville, Davis, Napa, Fairfield, Oakland, Martinez, Vallejo, and Walnut Creek.
