Orlando Home Care | Senior Safety: Falls Prevention and Bathroom Safety

Falls prevention and bathroom safety are two very important issues to deal with when considering senior safety.  Adequately addressing these two issues can make a huge difference in the welfare and safety of seniors in your care.

Many falls can be prevented by keeping the living environment free of clutter and obstacles.  Keep electrical cords away from walkways.  Make sure there is no loose carpeting, or throw rugs in the living area, as these can easily cause seniors to trip and fall.  Installing sturdy hand rails on both sides of   stairways is also a prudent measure.  If a senior has difficulty navigating stairs safely, a chair lift can be installed as an assist with larger/longer sets of stairs. 

The bathroom is another area where falls can occur.  Installing grab bars in the tub or shower, and adding a riser with arm rests on the toilet will increase bathroom safety.  If the senior(s) in your care step into a bathtub, make sure there are grip/no slip mats installed on the bottom of the tub to help provide more secure footing.

To prevent falls and insure bathroom safety for seniors, think clutter reduction and elimination first, then add the necessary bars and aids that best suit each senior’s individual needs.  One of the simplest solutions is simply proper lighting.  New LED nightlights produce a very white light and do not burn out.  Often motion detector night lights from a local hardware store can help by preventing the need to feel for a light switch.  If more lighting than a night can offer is needed there are motion detectors that can replace a light switch and will turn on overhead lights or lamps.  

Our counselors and RNs at Partners in Healthcare are available to talk with you about your in-home care safety needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are a senior care agency providing Elder Care in Orlando.

Hank Charpentier