When it comes to taking care of the elders, it is the bathroom which requires special consideration. This is because there are corners and edges in the bathroom that may make the senior feel uneasy or anxious. Not to mention, it can be really dangerous to clean the floors with soap, water, and detergents.
Therefore, it is frequently advised to take special consideration while constructing bathrooms for the elderly. Wondering how to do that? Well, then here are a few inexpensive and practical bathing accessories that might assist seniors in using the bathroom safely.
- Grab Bars
Grab bars are available in a wide range of styles and sizes. This makes it easy to tailor their placement in a bathroom as per the needs of the elderly. Wall-mounted grab bars can be installed in the shower, next to the toilet, or wherever extra support is needed.
Having the grab bars around prevents the risk of slipping or falling off. Grab bars are simple to install, but they must be mounted and placed properly for them to be useful and safe.
- Shower Head with Handles
Handheld shower heads make it simpler for seniors to bathe without having to walk around as much. This is basically one of the most useful bathing accessories to have around the elderly.
Look to install a shower handle with an on/off switch as it might be challenging to turn it off and on accordingly, especially if the elderly person is dealing with arthritis. Some versions also allow you to change the water pressure using the softer spray. Shower heads with such features are proven to be beneficial for elderly people with sensitive skin.
- Bath Stools
The next thing that must be added in the bathroom for the elderly is the bath stool.
These are water-resistant, backless bath seats with three or four legs extending downward from the bottom. They are also known as tub seats or tub stools.
The majority of stools have suction cup-style feet, with rubber stoppers that make them slip-resistant. Moreover, they also have a slip-resistant seat that avoids them from sliding. Besides just for bathing, these bath stools can be used for a variety of purposes by the elderly including washing clothes.
- Anti Slip Shower Mat
Just as the name suggests, the anti-slip shower mats’ main function is to stop people from slipping. As elderly people are always anxious that they may fall or slip in the shower, this item can lower such possibilities.
They can be utilized around bathing locations like bathtubs, showers or even in areas where there is the usage of water. Being soft and sturdy in nature, these are incredibly crucial for smooth floors that can be vulnerable to water spills. Furthermore, they also offer points for acupressure massage that one may feel good about.
- Raised Toilet Seats
Raised toilet seats are a useful toilet aid for older people who have weaker bodies and limited mobility. By raising the regular toilet seat, these toilet solutions assist in lessening the strain and discomfort that comes from using the restroom.
Other than that, by minimising the distance and effort required to sit and stand, this bathroom item improves safety. They are simple to install and significantly reduce the chance of falling or being unable to stand up from a seated position.
- Efficient Faucets
Seniors with arthritis or diminished hand and arm strength may find it challenging to operate the regular bathroom faucets. This is why it is suggested to switch to efficient faucets that have great functions and are specially designed keeping the needs of the elderly in mind.
Such faucets are usually smoother and easier to spin. Also, they do not require one to bend or reach forward in an awkward position to get access to it. As seniors with vision impairments are more likely to confuse hot for cold, it is highly suggested to keep in mind that the hot and cold indications on the faucets should be clear enough.
- Automatic Night Lights
When the bathroom has low light conditions, the chances of accidents are likely higher, especially for elders who have visual problems. On the other hand, bathrooms with better lighting make it easier for elders to find their way and lower their risk of falling at night.
It is important to understand that elderly members of the house should be able to see well in optimal lighting conditions, but it shouldn’t be so bright that it blinds them or causes them to feel dizzy. So make sure to install lights that have balanced lighting and work better for the senior citizens.
- Toilet Squat Tools
Toilet squat tools are another important bathroom accessory that is a must-have especially if you have the elderly at home. You can choose this tool for the elderly to achieve an ideal toilet posture.
It provides comfort while easing tension and pressure on the anal and rectal veins. Anyone including senior citizens who are dealing with health problems like bloating, haemorrhoids or constipation would find themselves to be assisted with this item.
