How to Make a Bathroom Safe for Seniors

Bathrooms can be risky for seniors due to slippery surfaces and mobility issues. A few simple changes can make the bathroom safer and more comfortable. Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping a loved one, these tips can help reduce the risk of falls and bring peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

• Non-slip mats, grab bars, and removing clutter help keep the bathroom safe and prevent falls.
• Walk-in showers, raised toilet seats, and shower chairs make using the bathroom easier for seniors with mobility issues.
• Bright lights, night lights, and lower water heater temperatures help seniors avoid accidents and stay comfortable.
• Professional help with installing grab bars or waterproof floors ensures the bathroom is safer and easier to use.

Add Non-Slip Mats and Rugs

Wet bathroom floors can cause slips and falls. But there are easy ways to make them safer. Use non-slip mats with strong suction cups inside and outside the shower. Place them near the sink and toilet to add grip where it’s needed most.

Rugs can slide and trip someone, so skip throw rugs and choose bath mats with non-slip backings instead.

Install Grab Bars 

To ensure safety at home, small additions can go a long way in making the bathroom a safer place.

Install grab bars next to the toilet, in the shower, and near the tub for reliable support, especially in areas where balance might be a concern. Ensure they are securely attached to the wall for maximum stability.

Handrails along the walls can also help seniors maintain their balance and move around with greater confidence.

Add a Walk-In Shower and Shower Chair

Showers can be challenging for older adults, especially for those with mobility or balance issues.

A walk-in shower can make getting in and out much easier by eliminating the need to step over a high ledge. Adding a shower chair provides a secure and comfortable place to sit, while a transfer bench offers extra support when moving in and out of the shower.

Another helpful addition is a hand-held shower head, which allows seniors to bathe while seated and keeps everything easily within reach.

Purchase a Raised Toilet Seat

Standard toilets can be difficult for some seniors to use comfortably.

A raised toilet seat can make sitting down and standing up much easier, and models with built-in armrests provide added stability and support.

Another simple way to help seniors maintain balance and feel more secure is to install toilet safety rails on either side of the toilet.

Brighten Up the Space

Good lighting is important in helping seniors see clearly and avoid tripping hazards. Motion-activated night lights are especially useful, as they illuminate the path to the bathroom during nighttime trips, reducing the risk of falls.

Bright bulbs are also essential for eliminating shadows and ensuring the entire space is well-lit, making it easier to navigate safely.

Keep Things Organized

Keeping the bathroom organized and safe can make daily routines much easier for seniors. Use shower caddies or wall-mounted dispensers within easy reach to store toiletries securely and keep the shower floor clear.

Removing clutter, such as extra toiletries or laundry from the floor, helps prevent falls or trips.

Prevent Hot Water Burns

Hot water can pose a risk of burns for seniors, who might not notice high temperatures immediately. Lowering the water heater thermostat to 120°F or below can help prevent scalding.

Thermostatic faucets are another good choice, as they maintain a safe and steady water temperature.

Use Features for Limited Mobility

For seniors with mobility challenges, specialized tools can make a big difference.

Walk-in bathtubs with a built-in door eliminate the need to step over a high ledge. Adding armrests in key areas, such as the shower or near the toilet, provides extra support for balance and movement.

Focus on Preventing Falls

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says falls are a leading cause of serious injury for seniors. Reducing fall risks in the bathroom is important.

To prevent slipping, the shower floor should be covered with non-slip mats or coatings. Hazards like loose throw rugs or anything else that could cause a trip should also be removed.

Get Professional Help for Big Changes

Some bathroom upgrades, such as installing grab bars or adjusting water fixtures, may require professional help.

To improve functionality and meet specific needs, they can install built-in grab bars, waterproof floors, or make other changes for shower safety.

Make Your Bathroom a Safe Place

A safe bathroom can make life easier and safer for seniors, giving them more independence and reducing worries for caregivers. Besides home modifications, simple changes like adding grab bars, improving lighting, and using anti-slip mats can make a big difference.

If you’re looking for more help, California Mobility offers products like stairlifts, ramps, and home elevators.

Contact us to learn how we can help make your home safer and more comfortable.