5 Essential Measures To Prevent Bathroom Falls

The recent tragic demise of Murphy Afolabi, a talented Yoruba actor and producer, due to a bathroom fall has highlighted the importance of taking precautions in this potentially hazardous area.

According to the United States Centre for Diseases Control (CDC), around 80% of falls in homes occur in the bathroom, leading to various injuries such as scrapes, fractures, head injuries, and more.

The CDC also reports that over 200,000 senior citizens seek emergency room treatment annually due to fall-related injuries. With experts recognizing the bathroom as a dangerous place, especially for the elderly and individuals in the mid-ages (between 54 and 65), it is crucial to implement preventive measures.

The bathroom’s slick floors, wet surfaces, confined space, and hard fixtures increase the likelihood of falls, often resulting in additional injuries from impact with cabinets or fixtures.

Studies indicate that falls account for approximately 60% of injury-related emergency department visits and over 50% of injury-related deaths annually for individuals aged 65 and older. Additionally, up to 80% of falls in homes occur in the bathroom.

To prevent bathroom falls and ensure safety, experts recommend the following measures:

>>>>>Install grab bars: Placing grab bars near the shower, bathtub, and toilet in every bathroom is essential. These bars provide support, allowing individuals to stabilize themselves and avoid falling. Installing grab bars significantly reduces the incidence of bathroom falls and related injuries.

>>>>Place non-slip mats: Falls often occur when individuals are getting in or out of the tub or shower, as well as when standing up after using the toilet. To mitigate this risk, use non-slip mats or decals on the shower or bathtub floor and non-slip rugs on the floor outside these areas. Additionally, opt for non-slip mats in front of the sink and toilet instead of fluffy rugs.

>>>>Install raised toilet seat: Installing a raised toilet seat, which increases the seat height by three to four inches, reduces the effort required to sit and stand. By minimizing the sit-stand movement, bathroom falls can be significantly reduced. Moreover, consider adding shelves at eye level for toiletries, ensuring commonly used items are within easy reach and preventing the need to reach up or bend down, thereby minimizing the risk of slipping or falling.

>>>>Regular cleaning: Regular cleaning is vital in preventing bathroom falls. Soap scum and condensation build-up can make surfaces slippery. Cleaning tubs, showers, grab bars, and mats at least three times a week (or daily for seniors) helps prevent the accumulation of slick residue and reduces the risk of falls.

>>>>Install efficient lighting and motion sensors: Adequate lighting is crucial, especially during nighttime visits to the bathroom. Consider using nightlights or motion-sensor lighting in hallways leading to the bathroom from bedrooms or living areas. This ensures seniors have proper visibility and minimizes the chances of tripping or falling due to poor lighting conditions.

,,,,By implementing these preventive measures, such as installing grab bars, using non-slip mats, raising toilet seats, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring sufficient lighting, the risk of bathroom falls can be significantly reduced.

Prioritizing safety in the bathroom is an easy and cost-effective way to protect loved ones and prevent unfortunate accidents.