As a caretaker, you may be responsible for assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs).
This eliminates the need to step over the raised edge of the tub to get into the shower stall.
Bidet Toilet Attachment
Some caregivers find a bidet attachment helpful for cleaning people after using the toilet.
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Bidet fixtures also can be attached to traditional toilets.
Transfer sheets are typically water resistant and waterproof, and many have handles.
They can be used to turn, lift, scoot, and reposition a person in bed.
An anti-fatigue floor mat may help lower the physical stresses on the person doing the caregiving work.
A bath brush features a long handle that helps to extend a person’s reach without requiring straining.
Shower Chair
A shower chair allows a person to sit in the shower while bathing.
Bathroom falls are a frequent cause of hospitalization for older adults.
Bed rails help reduce falling out of bed and provide additional support.
Be sure that the rail you choose has an easy release in the event of an emergency.
Overbed Table
An overbed table is similar to those found in hospital rooms.
These tables usually have wheels and can be adjusted to different heights.
Since overbed tables are on wheels, they should not be used for support when walking or standing.
Place them by staircases, in the hallway, in the kitchen, and in the bathroom.
Pill Crusher
Pill crushers are used to crush tablets into powder form.
Not all medications can safely be crushed.
Disposable Underpads
Disposable underpadshave an inside layer of cotton that absorbs liquids and a waterproof outside layer.
They can also be used in wheelchairs, on regular chairs, or with other furniture.
Wheelchairs are widely available, and in some cases, health insurance will cover the cost.
First aid kits are available as ready-made sets at major retailers, or you might create your own.
Vision-Hearing Phone
There are special phones that can help with the loss of visual and hearing acuity.
Work with your healthcare team and try out different options to find the unit that works best.
Each person will have unique needs and their healthcare team may have some specific recommendations.
Older people may have sudden changes in their health and mobility.
Bathrooms are one of the most frequent locations for elderly people to fall.
Census.gov.The graying of America: More older adults than kids by 2035.
AARP.org.Executive Summary: Caregiving in the US.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Lifting techniques for home caregivers.
2013;2013:1-8. doi:10.1155/2013/743843
Kim D, Portillo M.Fall hazards within senior independent living: a case-control study.HERD.
2017;44(4):374-379. doi:10.1097/WON.0000000000000337
