Who hasn’t ever slipped on the bathroom floor or in the shower? Whether you’re 2 or 92, shower safety is a concern that you should take action on.
Statistics show that over 235,000 emergency room visits for people 15 and older are related to injuries suffered in the bathroom. The stats also show that injuries related to the tub and shower are most common in people aged 15-24. It also appears that these are the worst injuries, as tub and shower related injuries account for two-thirds of bathroom accident emergency room visits. For older adults, more injuries occur around the toilet.
So, bathroom safety is important. But how can you ensure your bathroom is safe for you and your family? Here are a few bathroom safety upgrades you may want to consider:
Hand Grips
One of the most obvious and simple things you can do to improve bathrooms safety is to add hand grips. These are simply bars mounted on the wall where you can grab on as you maneuver around the toilet and in and out of the shower. You can use attractive options that appear more like towel racks than clinical hand grips you see in hospitals. These are helpful for household members of all ages. Don’t forget, young people are the most likely to suffer a fall in and around the shower area.
Non-Slip Flooring
If you don’t already have a non-slip shower or bath floor, consider installing a safer option. If you’d prefer not to invest in a flooring upgrade, you can always purchase a non-slip mat to put in the shower area. Remember, outside the tub is an issue too, so selecting floor tiles that are slip-resistant is also an option. When choosing a rug, ensure that this is also slip-resistant and holds fast to the floor, even when damp.
Walk-In Tubs and Showers
Stepping over the ledge of a tub can increase your risk of falling and suffering an injury. If you have your heart set on keeping a tub in your home, consider installing a walk-in tub. This type of tub includes a waterproof door so that you can easily step into the tub. Most models also include a seating area in the tub so that you don’t have to sit down in so deep.
A walk-in shower is designed to use a very low ledge or make use of a glass enclosure and helpful drainage design so that no ledge is used. These modifications make getting in and out of the tub and shower area much easier.
Taller Toilet
Standard toilets sit a bit low, making it harder to stand up and down to use them. If your family is composed of adults, you may consider purchasing a slightly taller toilet which makes maneuvering to use it a bit easier. However, for households with children, this upgrade is not recommended.
Seating
Finally, you may consider adding a seat to your shower to make it easier for older adults to shower. Add in a tile seat or a clip-on option that can be folded up. There are a wide range of options now available on the market for you to choose from.
As you can see, there are many things you can do to improve the safety of your bathroom. Some of them are simple, and some are more involved. Pick and choose what’s best for you and your family.
Not sure where to get started? Need help with renovations? Give BCPSI a call at 714-602-1299 to discuss your bathroom upgrades.