According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury for adults 65 years and older. In addition, about 80% of all bathroom injuries are caused by falls, with about two thirds of those injuries occurring in the tub or shower. Showers can pose one of the greatest safety risks for seniors who are aging in place, with their slippery surfaces serving as a likely location for a fall. Those faced with mobility limitations and balance issues may also find navigating a shower difficult, experiencing additional weakness after prolonged periods of time.
While showers have the potential to be dangerous, there are many mobility solutions available that can help make them safer—and give you peace of mind. From shower safety bars for seniors to shower chairs, we’re breaking down the benefits of installing shower safety features in your home in order to better protect yourself or a loved one. Learn more about making your shower handicap accessible and explore the top-of-the line shower safety equipment for seniors we offer at 101 Mobility. We’re here to help you on your journey to making your home more accessible—and comfortable.
Shower Safety for Seniors
Both your bathroom and shower should be taken into consideration when it comes to making an in-depth safety plan for any aging-in-place senior. Bathrooms should be kept dry and clear, removing any obstacles that may be dangerous, like rugs, excess clutter, and sharp corners. Start small and don’t worry. Making your shower more accessible doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, many shower solutions work to prevent slipping and contribute to the safety of your bathroom overall. By combining both bathroom safety and shower safety techniques, you can ensure that your home is more accessible for all. Learn more about how to improve bathroom safety.
Shower improvements fall under two categories: easy, temporary fixes and more invasive permanent solutions. We’ll explore a variety of shower handicap modifications that will make a world of difference when it comes to making your shower handicap accessible. Read on to find the shower safety equipment for seniors right for you, your situation, and your unique bathroom.
Grab Bars
Those with mobility issues may struggle with weakness, dizziness, and a sense of unease on their feet, often leading to falls in the shower. However, there are several shower handicap modifications you can explore in order to help make balancing a little easier. Grab bars serve as an extra place to hold onto, providing an additional layer of comfort—and safety. When it comes to shower safety for seniors, having even one extra point of contact can make all the difference. They are especially useful when getting in and out of the shower, as that can be a period of added strain. Grab bars are a great option for improving mobility and can also be quite impactful when it comes to giving seniors confidence and improved independence. They can make it a bit easier to bathe with limited help, discomfort—and less worry.
As multi-purpose tools, grab bars also have a variety of functions. They are not limited to shower use and can be applied around the bathroom anywhere as needed. Grab bars are extremely customizable and can be adjusted to someone’s specific height and preferences, further solidifying their place as a great option to explore when making a shower handicap accessible. If a bathroom is shared, the installation of grab bars allows others to use the area without disruption or inconvenience. Learn more about the importance of grab bars when it comes to preventing falls in the shower.
There are two main types of shower safety bars for seniors to consider: suction-cup bars and permanent fixtures. Suction-based grab bars may slip, causing further safety risks, and often continuing to lose their grip over time. There are a number of factors that contribute to the success of temporary grab bars, such as the individual’s weight and the surface’s texture, making them a less feasible option in the long run. While some opt for temporary grab bars that simply suction to the wall, at 101 Mobility, we offer permanent solutions designed with your safety in mind. Our grab bars are securely fastened into the wall, installed to stay in place—and last. They also come in a variety of sizes, colors, and finishes to go with the unique style of your bathroom. They can even be integrated into towel bars, shelves, or toilet paper holders to be kept more discreet.
SuperPoles
If you’re looking for an additional easy option when making your shower handicap accessible, superPoles may be right for your space. Superpoles, also known as safety and transfer poles, operate through tension, and are installed from floor to ceiling. These shower safety bars for seniors can be placed anywhere where someone might need extra help bracing themselves, but are particularly useful around the shower or tub. Like grab bars, they are extremely adjustable. They also don’t require any drilling or permanent installation, making them movable at any time. Many superpoles come with extensions and add-ons, like an extra handle for increased safety. While these are excellent tools, it is important to note that these shower safety rails for seniors work best on the outside of your shower. If you’re looking for support inside of it to assist during the actual bathing process, grab bars are likely the best option for you. 101 Mobility Tip: To ensure optimal safety, using these two tools in tandem can be a beneficial route.
Non-Slip Shower Mats
When it comes to making your shower handicap accessible, even the smallest changes can have a huge impact. Non-slip shower mats are essential for senior safety and there’s good news. They’re an easy and relatively low-cost way to make improvements. Non-slip mats provide better traction, which is critical when it comes to reducing the chance of a fall. They are particularly helpful for shower safety for seniors when it comes to getting in and out of the shower, making the transition a bit less precarious.
While non-slip mats are great for safety, they also help make the process of showering a little less daunting. They are often cushioned, helping reduce discomfort over long periods of time, boosting stability, and making them an ideal shower handicap modification. Additionally, if a fall does occur, the mat may lighten the impact. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for a high level of customization—and comfort. Learn more about bath mats and other shower safety equipment for seniors that can help make your home safer.
Shower Chairs
Much of the risk associated with showers for seniors stems from the instability that comes with standing. In order to mitigate these risks and make showering a safer and more comfortable experience, shower chairs are a solid option to be explored.
For those with joint pain, weakness, fatigue, and other mobility issues, the added comfort provided by shower chairs can be life-changing. Having the ability to sit improves shower safety for seniors, often eliminating or greatly reducing balance issues. Chairs can make it easier for you or your loved one to shower without feeling unstable—or rushed.
Shower chairs may also reduce or eliminate the need for help from a caregiver or loved one, increasing confidence and independence while making a shower handicap accessible. Alternatively, they can be a wonderful resource for caregivers helping someone bathe, allowing for easier washing and care. They can also help reduce fatigue, making long showers more bearable—and showering more practical in general. Explore our Shower Buddy SB3-T or Roll-In Shower Buddy Lite SB6C for chair options that roll right into your shower. Have a tub instead? Our Bathlyft may be the ideal solution for you.
Barrier-Free Showers
Getting in and out of the shower can be the most daunting and dangerous part of the process for those with limited mobility, but it doesn’t have to be. Many showers and tubs are difficult to navigate, with high basins or barriers, and are lacking when it comes to hand holds and other places of support. However, removing your current shower pan or tub can be a helpful option, as this can make your shower free of barriers and obstacles, removing tripping hazards from the equation. Installing a barrier-free shower also opens the area up, eliminating a bit of the discomfort and struggle that can come with bathing in such a small space.
Barrier-free showers allow the area to be accessed by foot and by wheelchair, making it an ideal small shower handicap modification. Barrier-free showers can be upgraded and customized with a variety of helpful features, including slip-resistant lining, grab bars, seating, and adjustable shower heads. While this route can be a bit more invasive, requiring installation and other upgrades, the potential positive impacts can’t be underestimated. It is a flexible solution for making your shower handicap accessible—and your home more comfortable overall.
Need additional upgrades or want to add multiple safety solutions? Learn more about remodeling your whole bathroom for accessibility.
Creating a Safer Home
Showering is a pivotal part of life and self-care. Everyone deserves to feel comfortable and safe while bathing, and those aging in place are no exception. While showers can be a dangerous place for the elderly and those with mobility issues, there are several solutions available to assist with safety, comfort, and dignity.
At 101 Mobility, we’re ready to help with personalized care and high-quality products built to improve shower safety for seniors. Let’s work on making your shower handicap accessible, together. Explore our shower safety products, designed with both protection and style in mind. Plus, browse our other bathroom mobility solutions. Need something a little more in depth? We also specialize in whole-bathroom renovations.
Taking care of yourself or helping a loved one who is aging in place can be tough, but you can always rely on us for support and guidance. Request a free consultation today. We’re here to make your home more accessible and help wash away your worries, one shower improvement at a time.
