How Can Safeway Step and Safeway Tub Door Help Prevent Falls?
January 2010
Falls among older adults have become an increasing problem in the United States with more than one third of adults 65 and older falling each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "In 2005, 15,800 people 65 and older died from injuries related to unintentional falls, about 1.8 million people 65 and older were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries from falls. (CDC 2005)" Given these statistics, what can be done to prevent these falls from affecting the quality of life for older adults?
Older adults can take numerous steps to maintain their independence and enhance fall prevention by reducing hazards in their home that can lead to falls. With an increasing number of adults 65 and older aging in place and living in a familiar environment throughout one's maturing years, the ability to enjoy the familiar daily rituals is highly demanded. However, in order to accommodate the physical, mental and psychological changes that have the tendency to accompany aging, physical home modifications should also be considered when deciding on an aging in place solution.
More specifically, bathroom modifications are suggested to help reduce the possibility of dangerous falls. Some suggestions include, installing grab bars, or handicap accessible bathtub options done with a tub cut process, which creates an accessible walk in tub or walk in shower. According to Chris Stafford, President of Safeway Safety Step, LLC, "With an increase in the incidence of bathroom falls, a home modification such as a walk in bath tubs or a walk in shower have proven to increase the quality of life for older individuals and should be considered when discussing an aging in place strategy."
The Safeway Step provides easier access into the bathtub, and transforms the existing bathtub into a walk in shower once installed. In addition, the Safeway Tub DoorTM also modifies the existing bathtub but includes a water-tight sealable door; therefore, the individual does not lose the ability to enjoy the luxury of an accessible full bath.
Safeway Safety Step, LLC is known for quick and affordable bathroom safety with successful results. As the Resident Services Manager at Western Hills Retirement Village, a long time Safeway Step client states, "The Safeway Step was a great renovation option for our facility. Our residents love it!"
To find out more about Safeway Safety Step and affordable bath accessibility options, please visit www.safewaystep.com or call 877-882-7837.
