These days it is not uncommon for senior adults to wish to live in their own homes as long as they possibly can. The idea of “aging in place” has prompted many senior adults and their family members to consider what home modifications will need to be made in order for them to remain in their homes longer. One room that can’t be forgotten when making those modifications is the bathroom.
Bathrooms pose a major threat to the safety of senior adults. About 25% of hospital admissions for those above the age of 65 result from slip and fall accidents that occur when entering or existing the bathtub or shower. The most common result of such an accident is a hip fracture. If your parents wish to live in their own home for as long as they can, you must be proactive and do what you can to prevent accidents and injuries.
Miracle Method has a variety of offerings to help make the bathroom a safer place for senior adults, or anyone who has limited mobility or unsteady balance. First, there’s the Easy Step® tub-to-shower conversion. In less than a day, we’ll create a 24-inch-wide by 9-inch-tall notch in the side of the tub so users can step through, not over, the side of the tub. By not having to raise your foot very high, entry is easier and there is less of a risk of losing your balance and falling.
To help reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents even further, we can also install safety grab bars and apply a slip resistant surface to the bottom of the tub. Additionally, we can install a curved shower rod and a hand-held shower nozzle to help make bathing more convenient. These bathroom safety items will cost a fraction of the price of a walk-in tub and without all the mess and expense of remodeling.
Before: The tub was difficult to enter and exit, and could potentially lead to a slip-and-fall accident.
After: The Easy Step® tub to shower conversion and a grab bar make for a safer bathroom for all.
If you have a loved one that would like to “age in place,” visit the Miracle Method website to learn more about how we can help make their bathroom a safer place. If you would like to speak with a Miracle Method professional, please use our online locator or call 855-212-7337 to find the franchise nearest you.
