January is National Bath Safety Month

Senior Care in East Quogue NY

Taking a warm bath can be a great way to relax and unwind, especially in the chilly winter months.  For relief from stress and muscle tension, taking a bath complete with essential oils and bath salts is the perfect remedy for elderly adults and their caregivers, too.  However, the bathroom can be a dangerous place for elderly adults if they do not take the proper safety precautions.  Since so many injuries occur in the bathroom, it is appropriate that a whole month be dedicated to bath safety awareness.  When elderly adults and their caregivers are aware of the safety risks of taking baths, they can more easily prevent them and enjoy the tub as a place of relaxation and calm.  In observance of National Bath Safety Month, please review the following bath safety tips:

Prevent Slips and Falls

Water on tile floors make for a very slippery and dangerous surface.  To prevent slips and falls, it is a good idea to put non-slip strips on the floor of the shower and on the bottom of the tub.  Even with these strips in place, some areas of the bathroom floor can still be slippery.  For this reason, it is important to dry the floor as soon as possible when it gets wet.  Towels can be used to wipe up water from the floor, but remember to pick up the towel when done.  Towels left on a bathroom floor can also create a slipping hazard.

Install Grab Bars

For elderly adults who may have difficulty getting in and out of the shower or bath, grab bars can be very helpful.  Grab bars near the shower, tub, and toilet can help elderly adults keep their balance as they navigate the bathroom.  It is important to note that a towel bar should never be used as a grab bar.  Towel bars are not meant to bear weight, and using one as a grab bar can cause falls and damage to the bathroom.

Put a Seat in the Shower or Bathtub

Seats that are specially designed for use in the shower or bathtub can help elderly adults have a much more comfortable and safe bathing experience.  These seats can help support the back and make it easier to get in and out of the shower or bath.

By using the above bath safety suggestions, elderly adults and their caregivers can make their bathroom a safer and secure place to bathe and relax.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional caregivers in Southampton, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Source: https://alpinehomemedical.com/january-national-bath-safety-month/