Bathroom Safety: Key to Preventing Falls

Staying safe and preventing falls in the bath or shower is a real concern for older adults. As we age, our reflexes slow, muscle strength diminishes, and it can become harder to maintain balance.  All of these factors combined with a slippery tub or floor can easily explain why most falls at home occur in the bathroom.  There are several tips older adults can follow to protect themselves and prevent falls:

• Don’t rush. Always give yourself plenty of time to bathe so you don’t move around too quickly.
• Keep floors clean and secure. Place non-slip bath mats both inside the tub and on the bathroom floor to prevent slips and falls.  Install a heavy shower curtain to prevent water from spilling on the floor as you bathe.  Keep the floor clear of debris that may pose a tripping hazard, and replace old or worn out bath mats right away.
• Brace yourself. Install a bathtub rail and/or grab bar to help when getting in or out of the water.  Be sure to install a rail and/or grab bar that is designed to hold enough weight (as opposed to a towel bar), and have it installed by a professional.
• Call the professionals. Consider installing an aide like a bathtub bench or mechanical bath lift designed to assist when getting in and out of the tub.  Always have these services installed by a professional.
• Ask for help. If you feel insecure about bathing alone, ask a friend of family member to stay in a nearby room in case you need assistance.  Wearing a waterproof medical alert help button will also allow you to call for help if needed.

Maintaining safety in the bathroom is essential for older adults who want to reduce their risk of falls.  Lifeline, a medical alert service, provides quick access to help by the push of a button.  All of Lifeline’s help buttons are 100% waterproof and can be worn in the bath or shower.  In a medical emergency, Lifeline connects you with prompt and caring assistance, any time of the day or night.  In addition, Lifeline with AutoAlert* provides an added layer of protection by automatically placing a call for help if a fall is detected and you can’t push your button because you are disoriented, immobilized, or unconscious.

To find out more about the Lifeline service, call Victoria Lifeline at (250) 475-6415 or visit www.lifeline.ca

*AutoAlert option is locally available at participating Lifeline programs. AutoAlert does not detect 100% of falls. If able, you should always press your button when you need help.