4 Essentials of Safe Showering for Elderly Family Members
Sep 23, 2024aging in place bathroom design features features create safe showers and prevent the consequences of poor hygiene in elderly loved ones
Getting older isn’t always easy. From mobility challenges to visual impairments, we often hear from homeowners whose loved ones have physical issues that make bathing difficult and create anxiety over fall hazards. From safely stepping in and out of the bathtub to standing steadily in the shower, bathing can be a challenge. Some family members even say they’re scared to shower because of their fear of falling in the bathroom.
Consequences of Poor Hygiene in Elderly Loved Ones
Unfortunately, the fear of falling or generally feeling unsafe in the bathroom often leads to a decline in regular bathing, risking the consequences of poor hygiene in elderly family members. Without regular bathing, elderly individuals can be at risk of:
- Illness and viruses
- Skin irritations and infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Body odor
Depending on the severity of these issues, if your loved one stops bathing properly, the result could lead to social isolation and depression (particularly with regard to body odor issues), or even hospitalizations from untreated skin conditions and infections.
Be sure to reach out to a doctor or home health professional with any questions about the consequences of poor hygiene in elderly family members, or for tips on having hygiene conversations with your loved ones.
Ensuring Safe Showers for elderly Loved Ones
One effective way to ensure elderly loved ones maintain good hygiene is through thoughtful bathroom remodeling that prioritizes their needs and safety. Upgrading bathroom features can make a significant difference, allowing seniors to bathe more confidently without the fear of falling.
These four features are the best place to start when creating safe showers for the elderly:
Low-Threshold Shower Bases
Traditional bathtubs are a dangerous fall hazard in the bathroom. Choosing a tub-to-shower conversion to replace the bathtub with a low-threshold shower base minimizes this risk by making it much easier to step into and out of the shower. Choose curbless shower base for easier access when using a wheelchair.
Grab Bars
The most popular safe showering feature we see people include in an aging-in-place bathroom design is a grab bar – or, better yet, multiple grab bars. They provide essential support for anyone that feels unsteady on their feet or has difficulty balancing as they enter or exit the shower. Place grab bars inside and outside the shower where elderly bathers need them most.
Bench Seats
For family members who have difficulty standing long enough to take a shower, opt for a built-in bench seat. These allow users to sit comfortably while they bathe, and are more secure than shower chairs. Having a safe, secure place to sit not only prevents falls in the shower, but also makes showering less physically taxing, which can encourage better hygiene practices.
Hand-Held Showerheads
A hand-held showerhead will give your loved one more control over their bathing experience. These showerheads are easy to use while seated, and are particularly helpful for those with limited mobility. Hand-held showerheads make it easier to wash hard-to-reach areas, and the bather does not have to be underneath the showerhead, which can be unsettling for bathers with visual or respiratory issues.
Prioritize Safe Showering for Elderly folks to Prevent Falls
Without safe showers, older family members could lose the ability to bathe effectively. The good news is, it’s easy to get started making these updates to your family member’s bathing space! The Improveit team is on-hand to help you select the features you and your loved ones need most.
Use the form below to start getting your questions answered and learn more about the bathroom update process.
