TUESDAY TIPS
Simple ideas for bathtime safety
One in three seniors suffers a fall at home, and the bath remains a notoriously dangerous spot. Besides considering products like
Safety Tubs, which feature walk-in doors that eliminate the need to step up and over tub sides, caregivers and patients alike can gain a greater sense of comfort and security simply by employing basic safety tips such as these:
- Mark hot and cold handles clearly
- Make sure the temperature setting is not too hot
- Replace shower doors with a plastic curtain for easier entry and to prevent leaning on a door that's not designed to support body weight
- Use rubber mats with suction grips, adhesive strips or an anti-slip tub surface
- Avoid soap-scum buildup
- Install grab bars
- Purchase an attachable transfer board to provide comfortable and safe seating, or a transfer bench to aid those who have difficulty entering or exiting the tub
