Bathroom

 

Getting in/out of the tub/shower

Risk Factors	Prevention
Slippery floor surfaces Lack of supportive handholds Towels or slippery rugs on floor Stepping from tub/shower onto slippery surfaces	Grab bars with color contrast Non-slip mats/decals/strips on floor, in tub and shower Shower chairs/transfer benches Wall-attached soap/shampoo dispenser

 

Using the toilet

Risk Factors	Prevention
Nighttime toileting Poor lighting Hurrying to toilet	Toilet grab bars (bars that attach to toilet preferrable to wall-attached bars for elders with good arm strength Toilet riser (to make it easier for elders with decreased arm strength to stand up) Nightlights on and outside bathroom Bedside commode Good lighting between bed and bathroom

 

Walking About

Risk Factors	Prevention
Slippery floor surfaces Slippery hand-support surfaces (top of sink) Towel bars used for balance support Poor lighting (especially at night) Bathroom door opens inward (difficult to access fallen elder)	Non-slip tiles/rugs Clear, non-slip tape Replace towel bars with grab bars (color contrast) Increase general and task lighting Bathroom door opens outwards or install sliding pocket door Remove door locks Remove all throw rugs and wiring from walkway If plumbing allows, add hand-held shower

Other Areas of Fall Prevention

• Bedroom
• Hallways
• Living Room
• Steps
• Kitchen
• External Premises