(Simple Act Of Love Series)
written by: Nevada Bird
As the years have gone by, I’ve watched some parents’ children grow up and eventually leave home. With each passing year, I’ve gained a bit more wisdom and experience. For my partner and me, seeing each other age has been a mix of sweet and bittersweet moments. It’s a constant reminder of just how precious life is. Change is an inevitable part of our journey together.
As people age, their mobility often becomes unstable due to balance problems and muscle weakness. Safety is something I constantly think about. Why didn’t I spend more time researching essential safety gadgets for my beloved partner before he passed away? Was it because his constant need for attention distracted me? Or was it the stress clouding my mind without me even realizing it? There were so many things I could have done; why didn’t I act on them?
Consider some crucial information. Act now to avoid guilt and regret. Planning ahead can save one from carrying burdens of remorse throughout life—I say these words out of personal experience.
My apologies if the introduction seemed overly dramatic; let us return to our main topic now.
Personally, I’m a frequent Amazon shopper because of its vast selection. It’s truly a one-stop shop, which is why I love using it. Leveraging my experience as a caregiver, I joined Amazon Associates. I recommend products that be best suited for both you and your aging partner’s needs.
Most healthy adults do not give bathroom safety a second thought. They visit it an average of six to eight times a day. It can show a hidden danger for our aging loved ones.
Imagine the worry of hearing a fall at home! To prevent this, let’s make your bathroom a safe haven. By making a few simple adjustments, we can significantly improve their independence and peace of mind.
Lighting the Way: For More Visibility
Imagine trying to navigate in a room with insufficient light and blurry vision. Does your bathroom’s lighting adequately illuminate all areas, specifically around the shower, tub, toilet, and sink? You want to think about using brighter bulbs or introducing nightlights close to these crucial areas. Motion-activated night lights be beneficial as well, obviating the need to search for switches blindly.
Enhance Your Safety Measures: The Importance Of Grab Bars
Grab bars are vital safety features in the bathroom. Install the grab bars securely near the shower entrance, within or inside the tub, and next to the toilet. Consider installing grab bars for added stability during activities like brushing teeth, dressing, or while standing for other tasks (the latter point is specific to males). They also offer assistance in both rising and lowering. I’ll leave it to your imagination).
Ensuring Floor Safety: The Necessity Of Non-Slip Materials
Wet tile floors can become dangerously slippery. Hence, bath mats with a textured, non-slip surface are necessary for safety reasons. I suggest opting for bath mat equipped with secure backing designed to grip onto floors firmly. Alternatively, using double-sided tape can also serve as a method of securing these bath mats effectively. As for inside the bathtub, I recommend this shower mat non-slip with 137 bubble massage points and a foot scrubber to scrub, massage, and promote blood circulation on your feet.
Showering With Confidence: A Handheld Sprayer Makes a Difference
A handheld shower sprayer directs the flow of water where you want it to go. This makes it easy to control the temperature of the water and get a good rinse. Furthermore, it helps to move around easily. It also lowers the risk of falling when reaching for a tap that is far away.
Seating Solutions: Consider A Shower Chair
Standing for long periods of time can be tiring, especially in the shower. Have you considered a shower chair? Choose a shower chair with cushion and sturdy legs, a comfortable seat, and, ideally, armrests for additional support. Opt for a chair with drainage holes to prevent water buildup and potential mildew growth.
A King’s Throne: Toilet Seat Riser With Handles
For those with weak leg muscles, this toilet seat riser with handles can help make it easier to get up and down. The seat is 4.5 inches high and the width is adjustable from 24.8 to 26.8 inches. The four legs provide stability, minimizing the risk of accidents or falls. This design allows for a more effortless and comfortable experience when using the toilet.
Transferring With Ease: Save Time And Energy
People can transfer from bed to the bathroom using an electric lift and transfer wheelchair. This can be beneficial for both caregivers and the elderly. It can be tiring to lift someone up and down.
Although the chairs can be expensive, Amazon offers easy monthly payment options. It is a good idea to consider this option for yourself or your aging partner.
To use the chair, the person simply sits up in bed. Next, the person brings the chair in and opens the gates. The person then tilts their body and allows one half of the seat to slide underneath them. The other half of the seat undergoes the same process. The gates close and lock once the person sits in the seat. Then, they can transfer the person from the bed to the bathroom.
Effortless Bathtub Exit: The Simple Push-Button Solution
Discover a luxurious addition to your bathroom that’s also available with monthly payments from Amazon. The bathtub electric chair lift effortlessly raises and lowers at the touch of a button, preventing the strain and pain of manually lifting a loved one. Say goodbye to backaches and fatigue for both of you, and welcome to a relaxing bath experience.
Shower Caddy Tips: Keep Essentials Close
A shower caddy can help you keep your essential toiletries organized and within reach, so you don’t have to reach for them on distant shelves. This can help you avoid losing your balance while navigating in the shower. When choosing a shower caddy, look for one that hangs securely or mounts on the shower wall for easy access.
Banishing The Bathtub: Consider A Walk-In Shower
If getting into your bathtub is hard, you can turn it into a walk-in shower. This would make it easier to get in and out and would reduce the risk of falling. Talk to a contractor about how to do this.
Maintaining Grip: Grab Bar Suction Power—A Lesser-Known Secret
Suction grab bars are a convenient and inexpensive choice, but their grip strength deteriorates over time. Here’s a simple way to maintain suction power: clean the suction cups regularly with warm water and a mild soap. This eliminates debris and soap scum, which can disrupt their grip. And then, apply vaseline around the edge of each suction cup in order to seal the airflow.
Communication Is Key: Talk To Your Partner And Healthcare Professional
Open communication is crucial. Discuss any difficulties your partner might be experiencing in the bathroom and involve them in the decision-making process. Consult your healthcare professional for personalized safety recommendations specific to your partner.
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