National Bathroom Safety Month: Protecting Your Health and Well-Being at Home

January marks National Bathroom Safety Month—a time to reflect on the often-overlooked spaces in our homes where falls and accidents can happen most frequently. While the bathroom is a place where we perform essential self-care, it can also be a hazardous environment, especially for older adults, children, and those with physical disabilities. At Campbell County Health, we believe that safety in the bathroom should be a top priority, and National Bathroom Safety Month is the perfect opportunity to make your bathroom safer for everyone in your household.

Why Focus on Bathroom Safety?

The statistics surrounding bathroom-related injuries are alarming. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 235,000 people are injured in bathroom falls each year. Slips and falls in the bathroom are particularly common because of wet surfaces, hard flooring, and sometimes cramped spaces.

For seniors, bathroom-related accidents are even more concerning. A study published in JAMA Surgery found that falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among adults aged 65 and older, and the bathroom is often a high-risk area. With that in mind, here are some practical steps to make your bathroom safer for everyone.

Key Bathroom Safety Tips to Implement This Month

1. Install Grab Bars

Grab bars can provide stability and support for anyone who needs extra help standing, sitting, or balancing in the bathroom. They are especially important near the toilet, in the shower, and by the bathtub. Properly installed grab bars can help prevent falls by providing secure handholds when you need them most. Make sure to install them in areas where people are most likely to need support, like near the shower or next to the toilet.

2. Use Non-Slip Mats or Rugs

Wet, slippery floors are a major cause of bathroom falls. Non-slip mats or rugs, particularly around the bathtub, shower, and sink, can help prevent accidents. Look for mats that feature a non-skid backing and make sure they are cleaned regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

3. Ensure Proper Lighting

Adequate lighting is essential for preventing accidents in the bathroom, especially during the night when navigating can be more challenging. Install night lights or motion-activated lights to ensure that people can see clearly when using the bathroom in the dark. Consider placing additional lighting near the shower and around the toilet for extra visibility.

4. Declutter the Bathroom

A clutter-free bathroom is a safer bathroom. Loose towels, bath products, and other items can create tripping hazards. Keep only the essentials within easy reach, and store items that are not frequently used in cabinets or on shelves. Also, avoid leaving items on the floor where they can be stepped on or tripped over.

5. Use a Shower Chair or Bench

For individuals who have difficulty standing for long periods, a shower chair or bench can be a game-changer. These devices provide a stable place to sit while showering, reducing the risk of slipping or falling. Look for shower seats that are slip-resistant and adjustable to ensure maximum comfort and safety.

6. Consider a Raised Toilet Seat

A raised toilet seat can make sitting down and standing up easier, reducing the strain on knees and hips. It can also lower the risk of falling when getting on and off the toilet. These seats are particularly helpful for seniors and individuals with mobility impairments.

7. Check the Water Temperature

Scalding hot water can lead to burns or serious injuries. Install anti-scald devices or thermostatic mixing valves to regulate the temperature of the water and prevent sudden spikes in heat. Make sure that everyone in your home is aware of safe water temperatures, especially children and older adults.

Extra Considerations for Seniors and People with Disabilities

For seniors or individuals with physical disabilities, additional bathroom safety features may be necessary:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: Make sure there’s enough space in the bathroom for a wheelchair or walker to move freely. Consider widening doorways or creating ramps to make the space more accessible.
• Shower Modifications: Low-threshold or walk-in showers are ideal for individuals who have trouble stepping over high bathtub edges. These shower designs are safer and make it easier for someone with mobility issues to use the bathroom independently.

The Bottom Line: Make Bathroom Safety a Priority

National Bathroom Safety Month is a great reminder to assess and improve the safety of your bathroom, but bathroom safety is an ongoing effort. By taking the time to make small, simple changes to your bathroom’s design and layout, you can help reduce the risk of falls and injuries for everyone in your household.

At Campbell County Health, we care about your well-being, and we encourage you to take the necessary steps to make your bathroom a safer space. Whether it’s installing grab bars, improving lighting, or clearing clutter, every improvement can make a significant difference in preventing accidents.

Need Help? CCH Home Medical Resources is Here to Assist

If you need assistance with any of the bathroom safety resources or modifications mentioned in this article, Campbell County Health's Home Medical Resources is here to help. Our team can guide you in choosing the right equipment to create a safer bathroom environment.

For more information or to get started, call 307-688-6260. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist with any questions or needs you may have.