Top 10 bathroom safety tips

According to the National Safety Council, each year there are hundreds of injuries in the bathroom due to slips & falls and over 400 people drown in bathtubs each year due to unsafe habits. With falling injuries on the rise with adults, these Top 10 Tips should help not only prevent accidents in and around the bathroom, but also make your bathroom time enjoyable, worry free and most importantly, comfortable!

Tip #1 – Make use of “Grab Bars”
Grab bars or safety bars and one of the easiest ways to prevent accidents. They are easy to install, come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours and give you an extra hand when you need one. Getting in and out of a bathtub, or on and off the toilet by using a grab bar will significantly reduce the risk of a slip or fall.

Tip #2 – Create a non-slip surface in the bathtub
A non-slip bath mat or the use of safety strips for your bathtub will ensure you do not slip while getting in and out. While this is an inexpensive and very practical tip, a majority of Canadians do not use a non slip bath mat.

Tip #3 – Ensure proper Toilet Height
No matter what age, a higher seat makes getting on and off the toilet easier. The use of a raised toilet seat is not only handy, but essential as we get older.

Tip #4 – Ensure Taps & Faucets can be turned off easily.
Some people with arthritis have trouble turning off (or on) taps and faucets. By adding a simple tap turner, this problem is eliminated.

Tip #5 – Make use of a Transfer Bench when getting in or out of the tub
A transfer bench allows you to easily get in and out of the tub without the worry of falling. A stable support surface will prevent accidents.

Tip #6 – Add a Shower Chair to your bathroom
Great for either the bathtub or shower, shower chairs allow you to comfortably bath and take undue stress off your legs.

Tip #7 – A tip not always talked about
The use of toilet aids can be of great help to those in need. These are important to hygiene and safety in the bathroom.

Tip #8 – Use Easy Grip Nail & Toe Nail Cutters
Easy Grip Nail Cutters are designed specifically for those with arthritis or those who have troubling gripping.

#9 – Use a Bath Lift for peace of mind
Bath Lifts make for worry free use of your bathtub. They are easy to install and often much less expensive than the cost of redoing your entire bathtub.

Tip #10 – Take your time.
When you are in the bathroom, don’t rush yourself or your loved ones. Take your time, do things at your pace and practice common sense. Bathroom Safety starts with you!

For more information on Bathroom Safety, please visit www.agecomfort.com or call toll free 1.800.520.3259 and remember, Life should be Comfortable!

CARP Approved Partner