by Kathrine Mills

Created on: May 20, 2010   Last Updated: May 21, 2010

Whether one is limited in mobility due to aging or disability, home can be a very challenging place to function. The biggest danger posed to those with mobility issues, is the possibility of falling. A serious accident can send an elderly person into a spiral from being basically self-sufficient, to needing long term nursing care. Preventative measures are extremely important to keep those elderly and frail from losing the freedom they enjoy. There are various types of modifications ranging from simple and inexpensive to almost completely remodeling and spending a substantial bit more.  

Falls are the biggest risk factor for injury of seniors in America. In fact, a third of all those over the age of 65 fall per year. That statistic increases to half at 80 and above.  Once one has fallen, that individual is twice as likely to fall again. The bathroom is a unique room which poses significant risk of falling due to the nature of the activities that take place in it. This room has a few basic areas where changes may be needed to prevent a potentially serious and life altering fall. 

Toilet: 
Especially after a hip or knee surgery, lifting ones self on and off of the toilet seat becomes difficult. One may consider support rails for beside the commode which can be temporarily or permanently mounted individually or purchased in the form of a portable toilet frame. A permanent frame is usually anchored to the toilet itself and can be adjusted to the height and width of most individuals.  Frames are pleasant for those of standard height, however, for taller individuals, a toilet seat riser may be necessary as well. 

Shower: 
Another bathroom item which can easily become dangerous is the shower or bathtub. Proper installation of items such as non-sliprubber grips for the shower/tub floor, support rails or bars outside of the tub for extra support, a shower or tub seat for those who can’t stand for long periods of time, as well as bathtub lifts for those who cannot get in and out at all, will all help tremendously increase a persons ability to function properly in the bathroom.

If entrance to the tub or standing for along period is a serious issue, and one can afford an expensive remodeling project, it may be beneficial to consider a walk-in tub instead of a traditional one. Also, one may consider removing a glass shower door that runs

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