One of the most common concerns that family members have about a senior parent living alone is preventing falls, especially in the bathroom. The bathroom and the kitchen are where most falls at home happen for seniors. Falling in the shower is something that many seniors also fear. Your senior parent may be so worried about falling in the shower that they put off taking a shower because they don’t want to ask you for help, but are scared to shower alone. If your senior parent is hesitant to shower on their own, personal care at home providers may ease their concerns and yours, too.
Personal care at home is specialized care for seniors in their homes that is focused on helping seniors with hygiene tasks like showering and brushing their teeth, as well as tasks like getting dressed or getting in and out of bed safely.
With personal care at home, your senior parent will have help showering from a care provider who has experience helping seniors shower safely, so that they will feel more comfortable taking regular showers.
Other Ways To Help
In addition to getting personal care at home for your parent, you can help them avoid falls in the bathroom by doing things like:
- Install grab bars in key areas
Grab bars provide steady support and reduce the risk of slipping or falling. They should be installed near the toilet, inside the shower, and just outside the shower or tub. These bars give your parent something solid to hold onto when sitting, standing, or stepping in and out.
Grab bars should be securely attached to wall studs, not suction cups. Towel racks are not safe substitutes, since they are not designed to hold body weight.
- Use non-slip mats and strips
Wet bathroom floors are a major fall risk. Place non-slip mats outside the shower or tub where water often drips. Inside the shower or tub, use non-slip strips or a rubber mat designed for wet surfaces.
Avoid loose rugs with curled edges, as they can slide or bunch up underfoot. Mats should have rubber backing and lie flat on the floor.
- Improve lighting throughout the bathroom
Good lighting helps seniors see hazards clearly. Many falls happen because of shadows or dim areas. Make sure overhead lights are bright enough and working properly.
A nightlight or motion sensor light can be especially helpful for nighttime bathroom trips. Place one so that it lights the path from the bedroom to the bathroom, and place another one inside the bathroom itself.
- Adjust water temperature for safety
Have you ever gotten in the shower and jumped back out because the water was too hot? If the water is too hot for your parent, they can’t move fast enough to get out of the water safely. Hot water can cause serious burns.
Lower the water heater temperature to a safe level, usually no higher than 120°F. If possible, install an easy-to-grip handheld shower handle with clear hot and cold markings. This makes it easier to adjust water safely and avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Add a stable shower chair or bench
Standing for long periods in the shower can be tiring and unsafe. A sturdy shower chair or bench allows your parent to sit while showering, reducing the risk of slipping.
Choose a chair with non-slip feet and adjustable height. It should fit well inside the shower without wobbling. Sitting down can also make it easier to move slowly and safely.
- Keep the bathroom organized and clutter-free
Clutter increases the risk of trips and falls. Keep floors clear of laundry, trash cans, and extra items. Store toiletries within easy reach so there is no need to stretch or bend suddenly.
Make sure commonly used items are placed at waist or shoulder height. This reduces strain and keeps movements simple and controlled.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Personal Care at Home Services in Fowler, CA, please contact the caring staff at A-Plus In Home Care, Inc. today. Call (559) 224-9442.
A-Plus In Home Care, Inc. is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Fresno, Clovis, Sunnyside, Fowler, Reedley, Selma, Sanger, Madera, CA, and surrounding areas.
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