If you have elderly parents who want to continue living on their own, you might be worried about their safety. This is particularly true when it comes to the bathroom. According to statistics, bathroom falls account for about 2.5 percent of all non-fatal accidental injuries for people over the age of 65. If your elderly parents are going to be living alone, you need to make sure that their bathroom is a safe environment for them. Here are four tips for making the bathroom a safe place for your parents.

Adjust the Water Heater

As you age, your body loses its ability to sense temperature changes. Because of these changes, your parents may not be able to recognize when their bath water is too hot until it's too late. If your parents are going to be living alone, be sure you've adjusted the water heater to protect them from burns. For maximum protection, the water heater should be adjusted to 120 degrees or less. If you're not sure how to adjust the water heater temperature, have a plumber come out and make the proper adjustments for you.

Make the Floor Slip-Resistant

You might think that the tub is the only place you need to make slip-resistant. Unfortunately, when it comes to your elderly parents, that's incorrect. Things like slippery tile or even rugs can cause slip and fall accidents. If your parent's bathroom floor is tile, consider placing slip-resistant tub decals on the floor. The decals will create a slip-resistant floor for your parents to walk on. It's also a good idea to remove accent rugs from the bathroom area. The rugs can get caught under your parents feet and cause them to trip and fall.

Increase Accessibility

Your parents want privacy in the bathroom, so the lock is on the inside of the bathroom door. Unfortunately, that lock is going to make it difficult to gain access to in an emergency. Consider installing a doorknob that can lock and unlock from both sides. This will allow your parents the privacy them want but will allow you the ability to gain access in an emergency.

Consider Walk-In Tubs

If your parents still enjoy soaking in the tub, but can no longer get in and out safely, a walk-in tub would be an excellent investment for the bathroom. Walk-in tubs are accessed by a door in the side of the tub. Once inside, your parents can sit down on a safety bench, close the door and fill the tub as usual. They can safely soak in the tub, while you have the peace-of-mind in knowing that they won't slip and fall.

For more information, contact Twin City Stair Lifts or a similar company.

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