Mobility Aids for a Safer Bathroom

It is estimated that each year, around one-third of seniors over the age of 65 slip and fall- and 80% of those falls are in the bathroom! Bathrooms are home to slick and slippery surfaces which can present hazards, especially for those with a mobility issue or physical disability. Fortunately, there are some amazing mobility aids that can make the bathroom a safer place to be.  

Did you know that one-third of people over 65 slip and fall every year? It’s true and 80% of those occurrences happen in the bathroom. Taking fall precautions makes sense, especially in the bathroom and there are some exciting mobility aids that could help reduce the risk.  

National Bath Safety Month in January addresses some of the inherent hazards in the bathroom, including slippery surfaces and puddles of water. During this time of commemoration, take prudent steps and precautions to reduce the risks of a fall-related incident or injury. Talk to a mobility retail professional to learn more about quality mobility aids and equipment that offer accessibility and that may protect you from a fall.  

Some mobility aids for a safer bathroom include these: 

Grab Bars 

Grab bars seem like a simple solution and they are but they are also one of the most effective. When installed properly, grab bars provide stability and support in the bathroom, or wherever you choose to put them! Grab bars are useful near the toilet, sink, and tub but make sure they are installed firmly and securely to prevent problems later. Grab bars benefit anyone and can reduce the risk of a nasty fall in some situations. When it comes to grab bars, installation is key so make sure it is done properly.  

Shower Buddy 

ShowerBuddy is the cream of the crop when it comes to creating a safe and ergonomic shower system.   The ShowerBuddy is intended for individuals that require assistance and aid to bathe or shower, and this device alleviates the heavy lifting often associated with caregivers. While there is a risk to the patient during transfers and lifting, there is also a danger for the caregiver or provider, too. The ShowerBuddy helps with these transfers, reducing slips and falls while preserving the dignity and discretion of the patient using it.  

The ShowerBuddy looks like a souped-up wheelchair, but it is so much more. Consumers should know that the ShowerBuddy is a unique all-in-one system that enables the user to bathe and toilet in one trip and a single transfer. This makes it easier for those assisting the individual, and it reconfigures the bathroom and enhances safety without the cost of renovations.  

Shower Seats  

Perhaps you don’t require the level of assistance that the ShowerBuddy provides; what then? In this case, consider investing in inexpensive shower seats and transfer benches, instead. There are many different styles and types of seats that you can buy online for delivery directly to your door and they are designed to fit a wide range of tubs and shower stalls, too. Shower seats provide a firm, stable place to sit when bathing or washing, which reduces the risk of a fall on the slick shower or tub floor.  

Consider making the trip to a mobility retail venue near you to see the shower seats and survey your options up close. It may surprise you what features and fixtures are available to you and staff is generally delighted to demonstrate any mobility aids that they sell.  

3 in 1 Commodes 

Have you heard about the 3-in-1 commode? These are adaptable aids that could make a bathroom safer in several ways. First, you can avoid treacherous trips to the bathroom at night by using the commode for bedside toileting. You can also adjust the commode to a taller height and position it over the existing toilet in your bathroom. By raising the seat with the commode, it is easier to stand and sit, with less risk of falling or getting hurt.  

You can also use the 3-in-1 commode in the shower for support and stability when bathing. These are great devices to have on hand as needed. They are super versatile and easy to use, too, so they make handy implements for anyone.  

Stairlifts 

Another way to make the bathroom safer is to make it easier to get there. Is your bathroom on the second level of the home? Ascending and descending stairs and steps is smooth and easy with a stairlift. There are many misconceptions surrounding stairlifts in the home, but they are easy to adapt to and not invasive to others using the stairs. The best way to determine if a stairlift makes sense is to speak with a mobility professional in your area.  

Consider your own bathroom- and how these mobility aids may protect you from a nasty fall-related injury. Make safety a priority when assessing the bathroom in your home- and talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more and see for yourself how these devices can improve your overall quality of life! Call or visit us today.