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Bathrooms
The bathroom is typically the most private and intimate space older adults have for themselves. Making bathrooms as accessible as possible is crucial so older adults can remain independent. In addition, bathroom have unique risks such as slippery floor, cluttered or cramped space.
Let's bring Mary back for a second, you probably can imagine how hard Irene fights to do everything by herself in the bathroom because it is embarrassing to have someone else in there. What Mary can do here is to help make the bathroom as safe as possible. Where can she start? Let's break it down to toilets, bathtubs, and walk-in shower. You can download the full check list here.
Areas of risk and best practices: toilet
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Non-slip mat in front of the toilet
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Have something to hold on to, usually grab bars or toilet seating, near the toilet
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Towel racks should not be used as grab bars
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The older adult can sit all the way down or they might need a booster seat added to the toilet
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Areas of risk and best practices: bathtubs
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Non-slip mat in front of the bathtub
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Older adult can get into the bathtub: for example, with a pole, grab bars, or a cut in the bathtub
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Towel racks should not be used as grab bars
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The older adult can sit all the way down or a shower chair is needed
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Handheld showerhead is recommended so older adults can hold it if needed
Areas of risk and best practices: walk-in shower
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There should be no barrier to step into the walk-in shower
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Non-slip mat in front of the walk-in shower
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There is something to hold on to, usually grab bars on each side of the wall
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Handheld showerhead is recommended so older adults can hold it if needed
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There is enough room to bring a shower chair inside
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Shower chair is always helpful
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