Did you know that the bathroom is one of the most high-risk areas for falls, especially among seniors? Startling statistics from the CDC¹ reveal that over 200,000 seniors end up in emergency rooms each year due to bathroom-related injuries, and a staggering 80 percent of falls among older adults occur right in the bathroom.²
Experts highlight several reasons why bathrooms are risky, including their wet (slippery!) and hard surfaces, the rush to reach the bathroom, and environmental factors such as bathmats (trip hazards!), which further elevate the risk of severe fall-related injuries.³
Moreover, seniors' physical conditions such as an unsteady gait, and weaker muscles and bones, coupled with medications affecting their body responses, increase the likelihood of accidents in this area.
However, should an accident happen, prompt assistance can help avoid a nighttime fall turning into an emergency and, in any event, mitigate the risk of discomfort from laying on the floor for an extended period of time. Just imagine how unpleasant it must be for anyone to slip in the shower and lay on the ground helpless for many hours!
StackCare stands as a valuable tool to promptly detect potential bathroom falls using discreet infrared motion sensors, without using any invasive cameras or microphones. This innovative system triggers an alert for prolonged bathroom stays or lack of activity, offering customizable settings for individual routines. Additionally, StackCare features a Help Button for immediate alerts to families and caregivers, providing timely aid without always necessitating a 911 call.
Our actionable guide incorporates the installation of StackCare as a key strategy to ensure the safety of your loved ones. Other measures include:
- Installation of grab bars for essential support near toilets, showers, and bathtubs
- Use of non-slip surfaces or adhesive strips to prevent accidents in wet areas
- Accessible storage solutions to prevent excessive bending or stretching
- Adequate lighting and nightlights for visibility
- Consideration of raised toilet seats for ease and reduced strain on joints
- Regular maintenance, including slip-resistant flooring and assistive devices like shower chairs
These measures, coupled with open discussions about bathroom safety with elderly family members can substantially minimize fall risks, ensuring a secure environment for our seniors and loved ones.
Let's prioritize spreading awareness and advocating for bathroom safety together! 🚿🛁✨
#BathroomSafety #FallPrevention #SeniorHealth #SafetyMatters
References:
¹CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/index.html
²PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21659980/
³PMC: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3591732/
