This year forty percent of those over 65 will have at least one fall, One in ten of those will be serious enough to require medical attention. Reducing the risks can be done thru intervention based on individual needs inventories for elderly. The CDC reports that one third of the falls among senior citizens are preventable. The strategies in this article can be useful in making changes to the bathroom. In addition; families may want to consider an assessment with a geriatric care manager in order to increase level of independent living.

Check water temperatures- sounds simple enough, but it can cause anxiety as well as lightheadedness. The water should be set at no more than 120 degrees. Becoming light headed can increase likelihood of falls. Those with dementia and with previous falls can be fearful when the shower seems darkened or foggy.

Eliminate rugs- some articles on the net may recommend skid proof rugs; but if a senior citizen shuffles when they walk then it can be a trip hazard regardless of whether the rug stays in place. Carpeting the entire bathroom is an option. Watch for the shuffle walk- which means that the person is not picking their feet up as they take steps. Keep in mind that any obstacle on the floor - including towels or clothes pose a fall risk.

Traction in the tub- the bathtub is a slick surface even for those with the best of balance. Any discount store will have mats and cut outs to aid in keeping the surface of the tub safe. Handles around the shower area can also be a benefit.

Use a shower bench or chair. The choice depends on space, and comfort. Shower benches come in several variations and can be purchased at Wal Mart, local home health equipment suppliers, as well as pharmacies such as Wal- Greens. A shower chair offers more comfort, but costs a little more. They can be purchased at equipment companies, also Lowes carries seats, and numerous items to modify a bathroom. Adding grab bars around the bathroom can also benefit a senior. A grab bar is a safety device that attaches to the wall and acts as a hand grip to steady you. These are useful near toilets or in bathtubs/showers to help the person keep their balance. They are traditionally constructed of plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel, and usually screw into the wall. There are also grab bars that use suction to hold onto the wall, so you don't have to put holes into the wall. These suction ones are not meant to hold the whole body weight, but rather to act as a steadying influence. As a bathroom is modified ask yourself if this will help the senior remain independent and free from falls.

Raise the toilet seat. Dizziness can set in- especially if someone gets up during the night to go to the bathroom. There are many options, including those seats that are removable and some that raise the seat permanently. Remind senior loved ones to avoid excess fluid intake after supper. A portable toilet beside the bed can be another safe option. Portable toilet seats are often seen by older adults as embarrassing and demeaning; so if this appears to be the least limiting option spend some time educating them, and consider moving it out of site during the day.

NO sock feet. Socks should not be used in place of house slippers. Use non skid soles even around the house. Twenty five percent of broken bones in elderly are hip fractures. 85% of hip fractures happen to women. Seniors may not be receptive to what they view as interference- so include them in simple decisions- such as color choice and style of slipper. Those senior citizens with Alzheimer's may need reminders to wear shoes/ slippers with a rough surface.

Review medications( is it being taken on time?) and eating habits - these can increase dizziness and therefore fall risks. Consider getting some professional guidance; like private caregivers or therapist help if the family sees the need to enforce medicaitons and meal times.