Bathtub Safety Products
Whether there are concerns about bathing a newborn or keeping an elder safe, there are a multitude of safety products available to minimize burns, slipping and falls. Falls are the leading cause of senior injuries and injury-related deaths, according to National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Avoiding accidents in and around the bathtub can be simple and often inexpensive with the use of burn and fall prevention products. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Avoid Environmental Hazards
-
Check the bathroom for home hazards such as poor lighting, loose rugs and other clutter that may induce falls. Utilize non-skid floor mats, improve the lighting fixtures and place a non-slip surface inside the tub. A textured, suction-cup tub mat can be used, or you can have a professional apply a non-skid coating to the tub bottom.
Bathtubs for Babies
-
"Consumer Reports" recommends the use of a baby bathtub for babies and that bath seats of any type should be avoided. A bathtub designed for infants and small babies can be placed in a sink or bathtub, or can be placed on a counter top or table. Designs vary from a removable mesh or fabric liner to foam-lined interiors contoured to keep the baby secured in a fairly upright position. When a baby can sit upright on its own, it may be bathed in a normal bathtub. Constant supervision is necessary any time a baby or toddler is being bathed.
-
Faucet Spout Covers
-
Insulated covers are available to place over the tub spout to prevent burns from scalding water and bumps to the head. Fun animal shapes can be purchased, as can rudimentary designs.
Grab Bars
-
Grab bars can help with balance and safe footing when entering and exiting a bathtub. These come in various lengths and configurations. Temporary installations involve grip bars affixed with suction cups, though people needing to lift their weight may not be able to use them. Permanent grab bars can be installed inside or out of the tub enclosure. A professional health worker can be invaluable in the decision-making process to help select style and placement.
Shower Chairs
-
Water-resitant chairs are made for bathing. They provide a temporary resting place inside a shower enclosure or bathtub. Models are available with or without arms or backrests. They have easily adjustable legs, too. People using shower chairs should be able to step into a bath with the assistance of grab bars or a caregiver. You can also install permanent seats of treated wood or plastic.
Transfer Benches
-
Benches provide access when a person cannot climb into a bathtub. These water-resistant seats straddle the edge of the bathtub on one side. Some models can be secured inside the tub with clamping devices, while others have adjustable legs with rubber feet to avoid slippage. Seats are available in stationary, sliding and swiveling positions.
Bath Lifts
-
Mechanical seats designed to lift and lower a person while seated are an expensive alternative, but are a boon for those with very limited mobility. They have a battery or are powered using standard household water pressure to raise and lower the seat.
-
