Health & Fitness
Bath Safety -- a Critical Component of Senior Care
For seniors about two-thirds of accidental injuries happen in the bathtub or shower.
According to a Los Angeles Times article, there were over 234,000 nonfatal bathroom injuries in the United States in one year. Overall, about two-thirds of accidental injuries happen in the bathtub or shower. But accidents can also occur on or near the toilet.
For seniors, falling is a big concern when it comes to bath safety, which is why installing grab bars in the shower or tub, and by the toilet, will prevent the grabbing of unstable bathroom fixtures such as a towel rack or soap dish. Bath mats with non-slip backings and sticky tub decals also reduce the risk of dangerous falls.
Making a simple adjustment to the toilet seat height is another way to protect a loved one, who may have difficulty sitting down and getting up. Some elevated toilet seats come with removable arms for added stability.
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Some seniors may have less sensation in their hands and feet and may not know if the water in the bathtub is too hot. Before they get into the water, checking the water temperature will prevent scalding injuires.
Other bathroom safety precautions include wiping up wet surfaces and ensuring there is proper lighting. Also keeping electrical appliances and outlets away from water is always a good idea.
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As you know, caring for seniors can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. We at Heartwarming Care are here to help. We provide professionals trained to care for your loved one and make sure he or she doesn't have a serious injury in the bathroom or any other room in the house.
Heartwarming Care is the perfect in-home care solution for seniors, elderly people and others who aren’t ready to leave their home for an institutional setting or live with relatives, but because of illness or chronic conditions need support and care to remain at home. Qualified companion aides trained in home care services are ready to help you and your loved ones with a variety of daily activities, such as assistance with bathing and grooming.
For more information about our services, contact us.