How to Prevent Bathing Injuries Among the Elderly

According to reports, scalding caused by hot water in a tub or shower are among the leading causes of severe burns, with the elderly being among those who are most vulnerable. Another serious risk to older individuals associated with bathing involves slipping and falling when getting into or out of the bathtub or shower. Here's how you can prevent these injuries.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Slip-resistant bath mats
• Rouneded towel rods
• Sturdy grab bars
• Anti-scalding device

1. Place slip-resistant bath mats both inside and outside the tub/shower area. Immediately clean up any water that may get splashed on the floor. Carpeting the bathroom floor is another option for safer footing.

2. Hang towel rods that are rounded rather than rods with sharp corners to help prevent serious injuries from falls. Also, place a padded safety cover over the tub spout to protect against sharp edges. Wrapping a washcloth around the tub faucet will work just as well.

3. Mount sturdy grab bars in the bathing area. Vinyl coated bars or bars with ridges provide for better grasp. Never use a towel rod for a grab bar, as they are not designed to bear weight. In addition, do not use glass shower doors for support. Be sure to place bath accessories within easy reach.

4. Use adequate lighting in the tub/shower area. Low illumination in combination with poor vision can increase the risk of falling. A ceiling fixture is one way to provide plenty of light.

5. Install an emergency telephone within easy reach.

6. Set water heater thermostat to its lowest setting, typically not above 120 degrees F. Many people do not realize that hot water burns just like fire. A simple precaution is to purchase an anti-scalding device that shuts off water from a shower or bathtub faucet if the water temperature gets too hot. Found in hardware stores, these devices are easy to install.

Tips & Warnings

• If assisting an elderly person with bathing, never leave that individual alone in the bath. Not only does reaction time decrease as we get older, sensory perception decreases as well. An older person may be bathing in too hot water and not realize it. Mobility problems may prevent getting out quickly, increasing the risk for serious burns even more.