How to make your bathroom safer for elderly relatives

As our loved ones grow older, it’s important to ensure their living environments are suited to their needs. One area of the home that can be particularly hazardous for elderly individuals is the bathroom. Slippery surfaces and high bath and shower thresholds can pose safety and accessibility problems for those with limited mobility. 

By making a few practical adjustments, you can transform your bathroom into a secure, comfortable space for your elderly relatives. Read on to learn how to make a bathroom safe for elderly relatives, from helpful bathroom aids to full bathroom adaptation services.

Bathroom aids for elderly adults

Due to conditions like arthritis, many older adults live with some degree of limited mobility. Standard bathrooms often pose several accessibility challenges that are not only inconvenient, but can also pose a safety risk. For example: 

• High-sided baths that are difficult to step in and out of
• Showers with raised thresholds that may create a trip hazard
• Lack of seating in the shower for those who cannot stand for long periods
• Low toilet seats that make it challenging to sit down and stand up again
• Lack of handholds, especially near slippery surfaces 

Fortunately, there are many bathroom aids available to help make your home safer and more accessible for elderly loved ones.

Bath lifts

Bath lifts are powered devices that can help make bathing safer and more enjoyable for elderly individuals. They are designed to gently lower your loved one into the bath and raise them back up when they are ready to get out. 

With the assistance of a bath lift, your elderly relative can avoid the strain and risk associated with stepping over the high sides of a traditional bathtub. They are ideal for bathrooms without a shower, or for those who prefer baths over showers.

Bathroom grab rails

Strategically placed bathroom grab rails can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls in the bathroom. These sturdy, inexpensive rails can be installed in various locations, such as next to the toilet, in the shower or near the bath. Some models must be screwed into the wall, while others have a suction cup mechanism. 

Toilet frames and rails can offer an additional level of support for those who need it. They provide secure handholds either side of the toilet to help your loved one lower themselves down and pull themselves up.

Toilet seat raisers

Toilet seat raisers can be extremely helpful for elderly individuals who find it difficult to use a traditional low toilet seat. They add extra height to the existing toilet, creating less space between the person and the seat. This helps make it easier and safer for your loved one to sit down and stand up without assistance. 

Raised toilet seats can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing joint pain or recovering from hip replacement surgery. Some come with lids while others feature built-in arms for extra support.

Shower chairs

For elderly adults who struggle to stand for extended periods, shower chairs can provide much-needed relief. These waterproof seats allow your loved one to sit while showering, reducing the risk of fatigue, dizziness and falls.

Shower seats are especially useful in homes that have a shower or wet room but no bath. They come in various designs, from simple stools to comfortable chairs with full backs and armrests. Some models also have wheels for easier transfers into and out of the shower.

Bath steps

Bath steps are designed to reduce the distance your loved one needs to step in order to get into the bathtub. This can be especially helpful for those with mobility issues or limited range of motion caused by joint stiffness. 

Some bath steps come equipped with handrails, providing additional support and stability during the transfer process. They can be combined with bath seats for those who also have difficulties lowering themselves into the water.

Bathroom adaptation services

As well as bathing and mobility aids, you may also wish to look into remodelling your bathroom to make it more accessible. At Complete Care Shop, we offer three main types of bathroom adaptations:

• Wet rooms: These level-access, waterproof spaces eliminate the need for a traditional shower tray or bathtub. They are ideal for wheelchair users and those who need more room to manoeuvre.
• Walk-in baths: These specialised baths feature a door or opening, creating a smaller threshold for stepping into and out of the bath. This allows older adults to bathe lying down safely and easily.
• Walk-in showers: With no doors or thresholds, walk-in showers provide a seamless and safe alternative to installing a full wet room.

Simply fill in our form and our dedicated adaptation partners will contact you to arrange a no-obligation home assessment. They’ll guide you through the entire process, from the initial consultation to professional installation. 

With our expert assistance, you can transform your bathroom into a safe haven for your elderly relatives. For guidance on choosing the right bathroom aids, or for more information on our bathroom adaptation service, contact us today.