BATH ROOM SAFETY IN PARKINSON’S – AVOIDING FALLS IN BATHROOM

Bulletin of,

World Parkinson’s Program  – www.pdprogram.org

ISSN: 1929-4980                                    Volume 9, Number 7, July 2017

BATH ROOM SAFETY IN PARKINSON’S – AVOIDING FALLS IN BATHROOM

Loss of flexibility and postural instability due to Parkinson’s disease can place an individual at risk of falling. Falls become a significant problem as Parkinson’s disease progresses. About 70% of patients with Parkinson’s disease experience falls each year, and 13% of them fall more than once a week. Risk factors include age, disease duration, loss of balance, drop in blood pressure on assuming upright position, delayed reaction time, dementia, and slowness of movements.

Other factors that contribute to falls in elderly include poor vision, decreased mobility, muscle weakness, and arthritis. Falls may result in fractures and significant disability. Many falls occur in bathroom, one should follow the strategies given below to reduce the risk of falling in bathroom, 

1.      If you have any concerns about your mobility in the bathroom, do not lock the door. If in doubt, do not bathe when you are alone.

2.      Avoid using towel rails and soap dishes for support when getting in and out of the shower, or on and off the toilet as they are not safe.

3.      Properly installed grab bars will give support and stability and promote independence.

4.      Non-skid strips and/or bath mats can stop slipping. Sitting to shower is recommended for those with balance difficulty. A hand- held shower, bench, or shower seat enables you to remain safe and independent and minimizes the risk of falling. 

5.      Getting up in the middle of the night may be risky, particularly if you experience “wearing off” or prolonged “OFF” periods. Rather than struggling to walk to the toilet, consider using a portable commode or urinal by the bedside. 

6.      You should not buy any equipment or make any adaptive changes to your home without the advice of an occupational therapist. Contact your local health unit and ask to speak to the community therapist for your area and discuss your difficulties. They can advise the use of appropriate aids such as grab bars, and shower chairs, etc.

Z. Sarfraz MBBS (Can) and R.K. Rana, BSc (Can), World Parkinson’s Program, Toronto, Canada

                          Bangladesh Chapter of World Parkinson’s Program

DrAminurRahman,MD FACP MBBS

Consultant Neurologist, Birdem Hospital Dhaka, Bangladesh

World Parkinson’s Program is pleased to acknowledge Dr. Aminur Rahman for starting Bangladesh Chapter of World Parkinson’s Program in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

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World Parkinson’s Program  – www.pdprogram.org