As our loved ones age, their safety becomes a top concern. This is especially true when it comes to the risk of falling. Unfortunately, a fall can result in serious consequences and costly medical treatments for seniors. To protect our elderly friends and family from falling, there are measures you can take to create a safe and secure home environment. At NU Tub, we’ve helped families in the Springfield area safeguard their homes for aging loved ones through a tub-to-shower conversion. Here are four additional ways you can prioritize the safety of your elderly friends and family.
1. Enhance Shower Accessibility
Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that falls are a leading cause of injuries among seniors 65 and older? The bathroom is one of the riskiest areas for seniors, especially when entering and exiting the shower. NU Tub specializes in tub-to-shower conversions that significantly reduce the chances of falls during this process.
The conversion is pretty straightforward. We remove a piece of the bathtub’s dam and open a low-profile portal to the shower. Additionally, we offer custom-fit Safeway Step® installations or water-tight doors to bridge the gap. Rest assured, our experienced team can seamlessly blend the new shower entry with the existing tub. Consider these tub-to-shower conversions for residents with limited mobility to enhance their shower safety.
Don’t forget to ask about adding other safety features, like shower seats, safety handles, and grab bars, for complete peace of mind.
2. Eliminate Trip Hazards
Creating a clear and clutter-free environment is vital to preventing falls. Hazards such as area rugs, lower tables, and electrical cords should be removed or properly secured. Consider installing non-slip flooring throughout the house and covering all cords and wires. Additionally, it’s good to address potential trip hazards, like raised flooring between rooms. You may solve these potential hazards by flattening the thresholds or installing indoor ramps and handrails.
3. Offer Easy Seating Options
Promoting independence and accessibility is key to helping seniors with everyday tasks. By incorporating kitchen and shower stools, you can make activities of daily living, such as cooking and bathing, more comfortable for your aging parents and loved ones. These simple seating options offer stability and support, minimizing the risk of falls and promoting a sense of security.
4. Maintain Outdoor Safety
While we focus primarily on the indoor environment, you shouldn’t overlook outdoor spaces. Take a proactive approach by checking your driveway for hazards like cracks or uneven pavement. Make sure it’s easy to get to the mailbox, too. Likewise, remove hazards in your yard, like hoses, rocks, sticks, and roots. By making these adjustments, you create an outdoor environment that’s safe and accessible for your elderly loved ones.
Caring for our aging parents involves prioritizing their safety and well-being, particularly when preventing falls. If you want to take the first step in safeguarding your Springfield home with a tub-to-shower conversion, NU Tub can help. We also do bathtub, countertop, and cabinet refinishing. Contact us at (217) 522-1850 or request a free quote online to create a safer home for your elderly loved ones today!