As people age, daily tasks that were once easy can become more challenging. This is particularly true when it comes to using the bathroom, which can be especially dangerous for seniors, even if they have home health care experts helping them. Luckily, there are several ways to design a bathroom that minimizes the risk of falls and other accidents.

How to Design a Senior-Friendly Bathroom

1. Provide Ample Lighting

Good lighting helps seniors see towels, mats, and other items on the floor that could pose a tripping hazard. When designing a bathroom for your loved ones, consider adding brighter lights or additional light fixtures to the bathroom. You might also add a window to let in more natural light.

2. Choose Flooring Carefully

Approximately 25% of seniors experience falls every year, many of whom are injured in the bathroom. Consider using non-slip surfaces in your senior’s bathroom and providing adequate drainage.

If the bathroom floor is tiled, consider adding non-slip strips or mats to the shower or bathtub. It's also important to make sure that the floor is kept dry to prevent slips and falls.

3. Use Grab Bars

Installing grab bars is an easy way to prevent falls in the bathroom, particularly for seniors who have mobility issues. They can also help home health care aides take care of seniors in their own homes.

Grab bars should be installed in the shower or bathtub, as well as near the toilet. When installing safety handles, make sure they're securely attached to the wall and can support the weight of the user.

4. Install a Walk-In Shower or Tub

Seniors often have difficulty stepping over bathtub rims or into raised showers. Walk-in tubs and showers minimize the risk of injury by allowing users to step in through a door with a watertight seal.

5. Make Storage Easily Accessible

Many accidents occur when seniors stretch or reach for toilet paper or other bathroom essentials. A senior-safe bathroom design should include low shelves and cabinets your loved ones can easily reach without a risk of falling.

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting, and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There’s also the option of arranging for home health care visits if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their home health care services.