RISK FACTORS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The following format is to help you balance better and avoid falling in your home.  The number 1 reason are hospitalized or die is from falling in their own home.  Below is a list of Risk Factors and Recommendations to keep you safe in your bathroom.

Bathroom

1.  Is the path from the bedroom to the bathroom dark?
   1. Install night lights to light the way to the bathroom.
2.  Are towel racks used to balance or grab onto while getting in or out of the bathtub/shower; or to get on or off toilet?
   1. Install grab bar(s) in the shower or tub area and by the toilet.  Towel racks are not sturdy enough to provide safe support.
3. Is it difficult to stand during a shower?  Is it difficult to get out of the bathtub?
   1. Install a tub or shower seat.    
4.   Is the shower floor and/or bathtub slippery?
   1. Install non-slip mats or safety strips in bath &/or shower.
5.  Is there potential for any water on the floor after a bath/shower to cause slips?  Are there any leaks from the tub/shower?
   1. Fix leaks around toilet, tub, and shower.  Use a floor mat with non slip backing.  Wipe up water on floor immediately?
6.  Is it necessary to reach far or turn around to get towels, shampoo, or soap?
   1. Install a shower/bath storage unit to avoid the need to reach or turn.
7. Is it difficult to get on and off the toilet?
   1. Install an elevated toilet seat and handrails.

Home Fall Risk Checklist

Hopefully, the above 7 suggestions will help you or a friend or family member avoid a fall in their bathroom at home.  In future articles We will go room by room with risk factors and recommendations to balance better and avoid falling in and around your home.

Physical Therapy Connections, P.C.

www.PT-Connections.com

(719) 565-6678