Bathroom


Are there/Is there ???

* grab bars
* night lights
* a comfortable toilet height
* a secure toilet seat
* a slip-resistant mat
* a non-slip floor
* a hand-held shower hose
* a shower bench
* an accessible jacuzzi/deep tub
* hot water temperature set below 120 degrees
* a phone


Hot Spot
Bathroom

The bathroom is the most dangerous room in the house.

Hot spots are:
* no grab bars
* loose mats
* slippery tubs/showers/floors
* loose/wobbly toilet seats
* low toilet
* poor lighting
* no phone

Philip returned from an enjoyable day of golf and now was enjoying a shower. Unfortunately, he slipped coming out of the shower and found himself on the floor. He had severe pain around his right ankle and needed his wifes support to help him to a chair. Instead of dinner, they made a trip to the local emergency room and returned hours later with an ankle cast and crutches. At least it was only a simple fracture, avoidable if all shower/bathrooms routinely included grab bars. Grab bars are for all ages and all bathrooms!



Solutions for Falls in the Bathroom

1. Get a Grip!
2.
* Install grab bars! These are essential!
* Dont be fooled. Towel bars, soap dishes, and counter tops are not a substitute for grab bars.
* Grab bars now come in decorative colors and styles.
* For placement of grab bars check where you normally place your hands when getting in and out of the tub/shower- that place is where a grab bar needs to be. For special problems consult a physical or occupational therapist.
* Proper installation is necessary to ensure safety, call your handyman.

3. Get rid of slippery surfaces!
4.
* Use slip-resistant mats inside shower/bath area.
* Use non-slip flooring, such as wall to wall carpeting.
* Use a shower bench, see illustration.

3. Proper toilet seat height and secure seat.

* Makes it easier to stand up.
* Comfort height toilets are available; they are slightly higher than a standard toilet.
* Secure any wobbly toilet seat.

4. Use adequate non-glare lighting including cool burning night-lights. (see section on lighting)

5. Phone; a reachable phone is needed for emergencies. For more information see section on telephone.