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It’s no secret that the bathroom is the most dangerous room in the house, especially for older individuals. As mobility decreases with age, getting around isn’t quite as easy as it once was, and falls become more of a risk. There are various hazards in the bathroom that can be removed or fixed to provide for a safer, senior-friendly space so you don’t have to worry as much. 

1. Slip-Prone Areas 

Any area near a source of water is prone to being more slippery. This includes right outside of the tub or shower, by the sink or by the toilet. One way to make this a safer area is to put slip-proof mats and rugs down on those spots. Make sure you get a rug that has non-slip gripping features on the bottom and can stick better to the floor than a regular rug would. 

2. Rugs 

As previously mentioned, putting rugs down in areas that are common slip spots is smart if they’re the right rugs. Lose mats might do a good job of absorbing the water that’s on the ground but still pose as a falling hazard just like the water was. Rugs without grip are easy to slip on in bathrooms because the floors are usually tile. 

3. Cords 

It’s normal to have hair care appliances and other objects that have cords attached to them in the bathroom for your convenience in the morning. This gets dangerous, though, when the cords are hanging everywhere because they become tripping hazards. Designate a bin or an area in your cabinet to anything with a cord so they’re put out of the way when not in use. Plus, your bathroom will look much more organized, too! 

4. Shower Barriers 

Climbing over the tub to get into the shower can get trickier with age, plus it’s an accident waiting to happen. If you don’t have a barrier-free shower system, now’s a great time for a small home renovation! These barrier-free showers allow you to walk right in, even using a shower chair if desired. This is a much safer and more efficient way of getting in and out of the shower. 

5. Dim Lighting 

Dim lighting is especially dangerous at night when you get up and go to the bathroom. It’s already dark, and on top of that, you’re groggy and sleepy, making it more difficult to see hazards and objects you could potentially trip over. Now’s a great time to add some brighter lights or even a night light to guide you to the bathroom in the middle of the night.  

These tips are great for individuals of all ages, so now’s a great time to make some of those simple changes to your bathroom. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Contact us to learn about the various bathroom safety products we offer to make your home a safer place.