7 simple steps to senior bathroom safety
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[February 29, 2012]
(ARA) -- One in three seniors
over the age of 65 will experience at least one fall annually,
according to the Centers for Disease Control. The bathroom is one of
the most dangerous rooms in the home for the elderly. Slick floors,
small spaces, sharp edges and few things to grasp make mobility
difficult and increase chances for dangerous falls.
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Unable to complete everyday tasks with the same mobility they
once had, many senior homeowners are left with unsafe measures to
prevent falling in the bathroom. These may include insufficiently
secured towel racks that could fall when gripped for support, shower
chairs that are not slip resistant and sliding shower doors that
could move unexpectedly when entering and exiting the tub.
"We want seniors to live safely and comfortably in every part of
their homes. It's important that senior homeowners are aware of the
challenges independent living can present and take the appropriate
precautions," says Larry Rothman, Roto-Rooter's director of plumbing
services.
Roto-Rooter, America's largest provider of plumbing and
drain-cleaning services, is offering tips on what to install in the
bathroom to keep it safe for loved ones so they can maintain an
independent lifestyle with easier mobility.
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Consider
installing nonskid tape or mats on the floor of a shower or
bathtub.
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A shower chair is
also a safe solution that can be easily placed where balance is
a challenge.
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Flexible handheld
shower wands with an on/off button might be easier to use than a
traditional shower head. These are especially useful in
combination with shower chairs.
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Toilets can be
replaced with ADA-approved raised-height models to lessen the
chance of a harsh fall. Alternatively, raised-height seats can
be installed on existing toilets.
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Check temperature
settings on water heaters, as water hotter than 120 F can scald
skin. Special no-scald faucets or a no-scald regulator can be
installed as a secondary layer of protection.
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Some faucet handles are difficult for
arthritic hands to grip and turn. These should be replaced with
models that are easier for seniors to use.
A study by the Home Safety Council found that falls are the
leading cause of home injury-related deaths among older adults.
Making simple home installations can make day-to-day living for
seniors easier, reduce their risk of falling and give peace of mind
to those close to them. Most of the devices Roto-Rooter suggests can
be installed by most anyone and are recommended for overall safety
and optimal mobility for seniors.
Visit
www.RotoRooter.com/plumbing-basics to view an informational
video on installing bathroom safety measures and other
doctor-recommended advice for independent senior living.
[Copy of article from
ARAcontent]
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