The bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas of your home. With all the hard and slippery surfaces, it is a high-risk zone for injuries. According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008 an estimated 234,000 bathroom injuries occurred in the United States among people 15 years old and older.
Follow these tips that may help you avoid falling victim to a bathroom-related injury:
• Eliminate any and all throw rugs. These items are slippery and are the #1 cause of falls. If you don’t want to get rid of them, you can secure them with slip-resistant backings, double-faced tape or tacks.
• Secure the bathtub or shower floor. Placing mats, tiles, or nonslip strips on the floor of your tub or shower can help give you extra security. To avoid tripping, secure any loose corners on mats.
• Try keeping the tub as clean as possible to eliminate slippery soap scum or mold.
• Keep the bathroom floor dry. Place a weighted shower curtain to ensure your floor will stay dry from leaks.
• Place rails or grab bars in or around the tub, shower, or toilet. If installed properly, they will help you keep your balance as you stand or sit and give you somewhere to grab if you find yourself slipping. Never rely on a soap dish or towel bar for grabbing. These items are not designed to hold your weight.
• Keep the bathroom adequately lit. For nighttime, have nightlights on the path to the bathroom and then also inside the bathroom, or you can install an illuminated switch. You should also keep the bathroom lit during the day as well.
• If you have a low toilet seat, it’s recommended you buy a toilet seat extender or switch it out for a higher toilet seat. This is so you can get up safely and with decreased effort.
• Install an adjustable or handheld showerhead. These kinds of showerheads make it easy to maneuver it wherever you want and ultimately minimize your need to move while showering.
• Don’t rush. Taking your time and being careful decreases your chances of suffering a slip or fall.
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