When it comes to elder care safety in a loved one’s home, the bathroom is one of the first rooms you should focus on.
According to research by the CDC, persons between the age of 75 and 85 are twice as likely as the average person to suffer a nonfatal injury in the bathroom. For those over age 85, the risk of an injury goes up to more than four times that of the average person. In its report, the CDC noted: “This study found that older adults had the highest fracture rates and were hospitalized most often… Preventing falls and subsequent injuries in this vulnerable older population is critical.”
With this in mind, here are 7 areas where bathroom safety can improve your ability to care for an elderly family member.
Bonus Tip: Toilet safety is just as important as shower/bathtub safety. In fact, the CDC’s study on elder care bathroom safety showed that seniors are more likely to injure themselves while sitting down on, getting up from, or using the toilet than they are to injure themselves in the shower or bathtub.
Finally, elder care bathroom safety can always be improved by having someone around to look after your loved one. Whether that person is a relative, a friend, or a home care provider – like those provided by Visiting Angels – having someone nearby greatly reduces your loved one’s risk of injury in the bathroom.
If your loved one could use a hand around the house, call Visiting Angels today to learn about our home care services. Our Angel companions can help with personal care needs including bathing, toileting and dressing. We also provide assistance with activities of daily living including meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, and help running errands. We can help your loved one live safely at home.
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