Contrary to what many believe, seniors are not the only people who can benefit from using grab bars in the bathroom. When it comes to falls in the shower or bath, children are just as apt to slip as are seniors.
Shower stalls and bathtubs look quite safe, but accidents can happen no matter who is using them. Studies have shown that there are over 230,000 non-fatal bathroom falls each year in people over 15 years of age. Most bathtubs require you to step over the side that is usually about 18 inches high. Most stall showers have a 4-inch to 5-inch-high lip that you must step over. For many people, this is not a problem. However, for those whose balance is not as good, such as children and older adults, this can be quite a problem. Luckily, there is a simple solution to this problem – grab bars.
No matter your age, having something to hold on to in the slippery and wet environment of a shower or bathtub makes good sense.
Most grab bars are made of stainless steel to resist corrosion. They come in various sizes, but the most common bars are 18 inches long or 24 inches long and are usually 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Texture is added to some bars for additional safety.
Grab bars should be installed in the safest and most convenient area of the shower or tub. They must be connected to wall studs. It might be beneficial to eye-ball the correct placement for grab bars by having family members stand inside the bath or shower to ensure that everyone will be able to reach it when needed.
Here are a few rules of thumb for where to place grab bars in your shower.
For placing grab bars in your bath tub or bathtub shower combination, use these tips.
It is not possible to prevent every accident. However, by installing grab bars in your tub and/or shower, you will greatly reduce the chances that someone in your home will fall and be injured. If this sounds like something you need to do in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us at USA Bath and let us help you find the best method to increase the safety of your bathtub or shower.