Top 12 Tips for Bathroom Safety
Bathrooms are a favourite spot in our homes, but they can also pose significant safety risks, especially for seniors and small children. For example, in 2022, there were 78,076 fall-related hospitalizations in Canada among adults aged 65 years and older. Luckily, with a little effort, you can transform your bathroom into a safer, more comfortable environment. Here are the top 12 bathroom safety tips to ensure a secure and relaxing space for everyone.
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The following are some bathroom safety guidelines to help you stay safe in the bathroom and prevent accidents. Contact Bathway today for more bathroom safety tips, or to schedule a bathtub conversion.
Top 12 Bathroom Safety Tips:
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Install a walk-in tub.
A walk-in tub minimizes the risk of falls when getting in and out of the bathtub. Consider renovating your existing tub to a walk-in model to enhance bathroom safety for seniors or anyone with accessibility needs.
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Make sure all surfaces are skid-proof.
There are several skid-proof surfaces available for the bathtub/shower stall and the bathroom floor that promote bathroom safety. Individual decals do not cover the entire tub floor, so consider using a mat for the entire surface and rugs with rubber backing for your floors.
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Add grab bars next to the toilet, shower, and bathtub.
When installed properly and securely, grab bars are key to bathroom safety. They can help you balance as you stand or sit and give you something to grab onto if you slip. They come in a variety of lengths, textures, and styles.
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Install adequate lighting.
Accidents can happen in the dark. Having a nightlight in the bathroom can help with orientation and prevent falls from getting to and from the bathroom.
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Install a handheld or adjustable shower head.
Adjustable showerheads allow you to maneuver them where you want them, minimizing your movement in the shower. You can also use them while sitting safely on your bath seat or bench.
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Place electrical appliances away from water.
Water is an electrical conductor, so to avoid electrocution, keep your hair dryer, electric razor, curling iron or any other electrical appliance away from water.
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Set your hot water tank to a reasonable temperature.
Be sure your hot water tank is set to a reasonable temperature to avoid burning accidents from scalding water. This is particularly important for seniors, who may have more sensitive skin.
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Install ground-fault electrical outlets.
Ground-fault electrical outlets are designed to prevent electrocution by cutting off the power if there’s a short circuit. Have an electrician install these outlets in your bathroom.
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Make sure everything is attached securely.
All towel racks, toilet paper holders, vanities, mirrors, medicine cabinets, grab bars and any shelving or cabinetry should be installed securely. Nothing should be loose.
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Keep medications, chemicals, and cleaning products out of reach.
To avoid accidents, assign a safe cabinet for cleaning supplies, pills and/or medicine. Be sure that any cabinet containing these items remains out of the reach of children and individuals with cognitive impairments.
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Use non-slip rugs and mats. Place non-slip rugs and mats in high-traffic areas like the bathroom floor and tub to prevent slips and falls. Ensure these mats are securely positioned and do not curl up at the edges.
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Install a raised toilet seat. A raised toilet seat can make sitting down and standing up easier for seniors and those with mobility issues, reducing the risk of falls. Some models come with built-in handles for added support.
Learn more about the bathroom safety solutions we provide and contact us today!
Bathroom Safety FAQs
Why do most household accidents occur in the bathroom?
There are many hidden dangers lurking in the bathroom. That’s why thousands of people slip or fall in their bathroom every year, which can lead to serious injuries. The main reason is that most of the surfaces can be slippery when wet, such as metal, cold tile, and porcelain. The steam from hot water can sometimes cause light-headedness, which can be dangerous for anyone with lower blood pressure who may be at risk of fainting. Also, certain medications can cause dizziness or hypotension, which can cause limited mobility.
What are the safety hazards in the bathroom?
The bathroom poses several safety hazards, particularly for seniors. Wet, slippery surfaces such as tiles and bathtubs can lead to falls, while poor lighting increases the risk of tripping. Electrical appliances near water sources can cause electrocution, and scalding water from hot taps can result in burns. Loose fixtures and unsecured rugs or mats can also contribute to accidents.
How can you prevent accidents in the bathroom?
To prevent accidents in the bathroom, especially for seniors, ensure all surfaces are skid-proof, install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub, and use non-slip rugs and mats. Additionally, good lighting, including nightlights, can help with orientation, while a walk-in tub and adjustable shower head can minimize movement and reduce fall risk. Keeping electrical appliances away from water and setting a safe water temperature also add to bathroom safety.
Ensure Your Bathroom is Safe for Yourself and Those You Love – Contact Bathway Today!
Bathroom safety is an essential aspect of home safety, particularly for seniors. By following these 12 bathroom safety tips, you can create a safer, more accessible bathroom environment that reduces the risk of accidents and enhances the comfort of your loved ones.
Since many older adults are staying at home longer as they age, bathroom safety is an increasing concern. Contact Bathway to discuss bathroom safety and how we can help make yours or a loved one’s bathroom as safe as possible.
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