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What’s the big deal about bathing and bathroom safety? – Part II

By: George Bentley

The Magnitude of the Problem

Accidental Deaths

I, and other advocates of bathroom safety, are astounded by the high incidence of bathing-related deaths. ABT Associates Inc.’s report to the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicated that as many as 70 persons over the age of 65 die of bathtub-related burn injuries every year in the US alone. That is nearly 6 people dying each month from hot water scalding! According to the National Safety Council, one person dies everyday from simply using the bathtub/shower in the United States. Of the 24,000 accidental deaths of people over the age of 65 every year, many are bathing related (Burdman, 1986). The National Safety Council reported that 345 people of all ages died in bathtubs in 1989, 364 in 1988, and 348 in 1987. The numbers are sure to increase rapidly with the transition of the parents of Baby Boomers and, thereafter the huge Baby Boomer generation, into elderhood. Bathtub related deaths during the three-year period from 1987-1989 exceeded those due to handgun accidents, all forms of road vehicles accidents (excluding motor vehicles), ladders and scaffolding falls, and ignition of clothing. Because bathtub related deaths occur suddenly and in a supposedly protective environment, these deaths tend to cause a greater degree of psychological trauma for the families.

After the swimming pool, the bathtub is the second major site of drowning in the home. Budnick and Ross (1985) studied bathtub-related drowning between the years 1979-1981. They concluded that those over the age of 75 accounted for the most bathtub-related deaths. Drowning deaths, for those over the age of 60, were primarily due to having fallen in the tub.

Bathing Injuries

On average, 370 persons of all ages sustain injuries from bathtub/shower daily in the United States. The dangerous aspect of bathing is evident from the injury data reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission: 117,230 bathtub/shower injuries in 1989; 136,616 in 1990; and 139,434 in 1991. More elderly people were injured from using bathtub/shower than from other potentially dangerous equipment such as exercise equipment or cooking appliances (ranges or ovens).

No room in the American home poses more threats to safety than the bathroom (King, 1992; Koncelick 1982 ; Kira, 1966). The National Safety Council reports that in 1990, “7.8 percent of all injury episodes, or 4,547,000, involved persons of age 65 or older” (Accident Facts, 1992, p23). The majority of the accidents took place in and around the bathroom. About 30 percent of all home accidents are due to falls, the sixth leading cause of death. Falls result in 200,000 hip fractures, 25 percent of all hospital admissions for people over 65, and as much as 80 percent of all nursing home admissions are, directly or indirectly, due to fall related injuries and recovery.

Article From Article Health And Fitness

Ella’s Bubbles Practices Safe Bathing Techniques With The Walk In Tub
Ella’s Bubbles

Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview
How big is the problem?
More than one third of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States (Hornbrook et al. 1994; Hausdorff et al. 2001).

Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths. They are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma (CDC 2005). How to avoid this in the bathroom purchase a walk in tub so you dont run the risk of hurting your when no one else is around.
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, and more than 433,000 of these patients were hospitalized (CDC 2005).

The rates of fall-related deaths among older adults rose significantly over the past decade (Stevens 2006).
What outcomes are linked to falls?
Twenty percent to 30? of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries such as bruises, hip fractures, or head traumas. These injuries can make it hard to get around and limit independent living. They also can increase the risk of early death (Alexander et al. 1992; Sterling et al. 2001).
Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries, or TBI (Jager et al. 2000). In 2000, TBI accounted for 46% of fatal falls among older adults (Stevens et al. 2006).
Most fractures among older adults are caused by falls (Bell et al. 2000).
The most common fractures are of the spine, hip, forearm, leg, ankle, pelvis, upper arm, and hand (Scott 1990).
Many people who fall, even those who are not injured, develop a fear of falling. This fear may cause them to limit their activities, leading to reduced mobility and physical fitness, and increasing their actual risk of falling (Vellas et al. 1997).

In 2000, direct medical costs totaled $0.2 billion ($179 million) for fatal falls and $19 billion for nonfatal fall injuries (Stevens et al. 2006).
Who is at risk?
Men are more likely to die from a fall. After adjusting for age, the fall fatality rate in 2004 was 49% higher for men than for women (CDC 2005).
Women are 67% more likely than men to have a nonfatal fall injury (CDC 2005).
Rates of fall-related fractures among older adults are more than twice as high for women as for men (Stevens et al. 2005).

In 2003, about 72% of older adults admitted to the hospital for hip fractures were women (CDC 2005).
The risk of being seriously injured in a fall increases with age. In 2001, the rates of fall injuries for adults 85 and older were four to five times that of adults 65 to 74 (Stevens et al. 2005)
Nearly 85% of deaths from falls in 2004 were among people 75 and older (CDC 2005).
People 75 and older who fall are four to five times more likely to be admitted to a long-term care facility for a year or longer (Donald et al. 1999).
There is little difference in fatal fall rates between whites and blacks, ages 65 to 74 (CDC 2006).
After age 75, white men have the highest fatality rates, followed by white women, black men, and black women (CDC 2005).

White women have significantly higher rates of fall–related hip fractures than black women (Stevens 2005).
Among older adults, non–Hispanics have higher fatal fall rates than Hispanics (Stevens et al. 2002).
How can older adults prevent falls?
Older adults can take several steps to protect their independence and reduce their risk of falling. They can:

Exercise regularly; exercise programs like Tai Chi that increase strength and improve balance are especially good.
Ask their doctor or pharmacist to review their medicines–both prescription and over-the counter–to reduce side effects and interactions.
Have their eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.
Improve the lighting in their home.
Reduce hazards in their home that can lead to falls.
What is CDC doing to prevent falls among older adults?
CDC supports research and dissemination on ways to help prevent falls among older adults. To read about these activities, follow the link to CDC Fall Prevention Activities.

CDC has also developed brochures and posters, in partnership with the CDC Foundation and MetLife Foundation, to educate older adults and those who care for them about preventing falls and the injuries that result.

Ella’s Bubbles cares about seniors health and well being. We have been providing quality home products for bathroom safety since 2006!

http://www.ellasbubbles.com
http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/falls/adultfalls.html

The walk in tub is a direct ancestor of the clawfoot tub, found as far back as 3000 B.C. on Crete. As times have evolved, so has the practice of bathing. One of the latest developments is the walk in tub.
What is a Walk-In Tub?

The chief feature of the walk in bathtub is the side door, allowing the bather easier access by simply walking into the tub. While commonly associated with the elderly, the walk-in tub is popular with anyone who has difficulty making it over the hurdle of a regular bathtub’s wall. Persons coping with disabilities and young children also can benefit from walk-in tubs.
Construction of Walk In Tubs

The walk-in tub is constructed as a solid unit. A stainless steel frame ensures a strong and durable tub and eliminates flux, a common cause of leaks.

Extra wide for added comfort, the doors swing either inward or outward and seal tightly to keep water in. Outward-swinging doors make it easier for the bather to enter. Also, door openings can either be right hand, or left hand, depending on your preference. Since walk-in bathtubs have the same dimensions as standard size bathtubs, installation is relatively painless and can be performed in short order.

Most walk-in tubs offer a grab bar, as well as a non-slip floor. One aspect that distinguishes the walk-in tub from standard tubs are the unusually deep depths, typically between 37 inches and 47 inches. This allows the bather to be fully engulfed in water, which eases joint or arthritis pain.

While most walk-in tubs come in standard white or biscuit colors, custom finishes are also available. Typically, the tubs are finished in a fiberglass, gel coat, making the tub extremely durable, and easy to clean. They are also finished with a second high-end gel coat to exude shine.
Do Walk In Tubs Leak?

Because standard bathtubs have solid sides, and walk-in tubs have a door, there is the potential for leakage. Most walk-in tub manufacturers have solved the problem, but to make sure your tub will not leak, check that the door has a double gasket and that the hinge runs the entire length of the door.
Walk-In Tub Cleaning and Extras

Most manufacturers recommend that you clean the tubs with water, but if you are looking for an extensive wash, you can use mild dish soap and water.

Some walks in bathtubs also offer heated air jet hydrotherapy, whirlpool water jet hydrotherapy with heaters, or a combination of the two.

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On average, 370 persons of all ages sustain injuries from bathtub/shower daily in the United States. The dangerous aspect of bathing is evident from the injury data reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission: 117,230 bathtub/shower injuries in 1989; 136,616 in 1990; and 139,434 in 1991.Those between the ages of 25-64 accounted for 37 percent of all bathtub/shower injuries; the most vulnerable being those closer to the upper age limit. The elderly accounted for 17 percent of bathtub/shower injuries in 1989, 22 percent in 1990, and 20 percent in 1991. More elderly people were injured from using bathtub/shower than from other potentially dangerous equipment such as exercise equipment or cooking appliances (ranges or ovens).

No room at home poses more threats to safety than the bathroom (King, 1992; Koncelick 1982 ; Kira, 1966). The National Safety Council reports that in 1990, “7.8 percent of all injury episodes, or 4,547,000, involved persons of age 65 or older” (Accident Facts, 1992, p23). The majority of the accidents took place in and around the home. About 30 percent of all home accidents are due to falls, the sixth leading cause of death. Falls result in 200,000 hip fractures, and 25 percent of all hospital admissions for people over 65. The bathroom is the primary location where many falls take place. Confined space together with hard slippery surfaces creates great risk for all people, irrespective of their age or physical condition. The greatest danger in the bathroom is slipping and falling when entering and exiting the bathtub or shower. The hardness of the bathtub surface and sharp, protruding fixtures are the chief agent of injury in slips and falls. The lack of support surfaces for grasping in older bathtubs is the primary reason why people slip and fall. This is particularly true for older homes, a place where many of America’s elderly reside.

Inconvenience

The results of a study published by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research indicates that in 1984 more people were dependent in bathing than they were in dressing, transferring into and out of bed/chair, meal preparation or performing light house work (NIDRR, 1992). Bathing related difficulties escalate sharply with age. They vary greatly between the young-old (65-74), the old-old (75-84) and the very-old old (85+). About 40,000 young old people reported difficulty with bathing. There were twice as many old-olds and over five times as many very-old olds who had problems with bathing. Not all people experienced the same type of difficulties; some had more problems getting in and out of the bathtub, while others had difficulty adjusting the flow and temperature of water.

Bathing is a difficult task for a large number of the America’s elderly. Another study by the NIDRR indicated that in 1987, “a total of 3.6 million persons (12 percent in the community of over 65) had difficulty with at least one Activity of Daily Living or mobility (walking) . . . ADL and mobility difficulties affecting the greatest number of elderly were bathing (2.5 million or 8.9 percent)” (NIDRR,1992, p66). Not all individuals with bathing difficulties required help; about 252,000 people bathed unassisted; 1.4 million individuals required human assistance; 308,000 were dependent on the use of bathing aids and equipment; and 280,000 needed both.

Original Article By – George E. Bentley – Health & Fitness

Walk In Tubs: Acrylic vs. Fiberglass

With so many walk-in tub features on the market, it’s probable you’ll find yourself wondering how to choose a walk in bath that’s right for you. One important question you’ll be asking when purchasing a walk in bathtub is, “should I buy an acrylic walk in tub or a fiberglass walk in tub?” There are notable differences between the two materials and it is important that you consider these differences when choosing a walk in bathtub.
Acrylic is a non-porous, thick, strong, and high-gloss material. Fiberglass is porous, fragile, and has a matte finish. The non-porous nature of acrylic walk in tubs keeps bacteria, mold, and mildew from building up. This not only prevents the spread of germs, but also makes cleaning the acrylic walk in bath incredibly easy. Fiberglass is susceptible to chips and cracks which allows dirt to collect and makes maintenance of the walk-in tub nearly impossible. Acrylic walk-in tubs will keep their color over time whereas fiberglass walk-in bathtubs have proven to fade and become dull in appearance.
Acrylic walk in tubs generally cost a little more than fiberglass walk in bathtubs, however their value is extraordinarily higher. Fiberglass walkin tubs do not stand the test of time like acrylic walkin tubs do. In fact, acrylic walk in tubs have a lifetime that is 3 x that of fiberglass walk in baths. The most important thing to keep in mind while shopping for walk-in tubs- you get what you pay for, and acrylic is a much more worthwhile investment.
Now that you know the benefits of purchasing an acrylic walk in tub, the next question is, “where do I buy the right one?” Look no further than Ella’s Bubbles in Chicago, Illinois. Ella’s offers acrylic walk in tubs that are manufactured with the highest quality acrylic material and equipped with state-of-the-art features. Most importantly, Ella’s Bubbles brings you Deluxe walk in bathtubs at the most affordable prices. Ella’s guarantees you and your loved ones will be worry free with the excellent slip safety features in their walk-in tubs at a price and quality that no competitor can beat!

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For many people, a hot walk in bath can be the highlight of your day. For those people who are having problems with their limberness, whether because of the natural aging process or due to an injury, getting into and out of the bathtub can be an extremely trying task.

What if you could just open a door for the tub and slide into a comfortable seated position, without putting your limbs through all of the bending, standing and sitting? That’s the solution that walk in tubs provide. Although you may think that all walk in bathtubs must look like they belong in a hospital bathroom, this is no longer true. There are stylish and understated options that will blend right in with any bathroom décor. Additionally, these walkin tubs can help you take advantage of the space in your bathroom. If you aren’t taking advantage of a stand-up shower or a standard tub that is no longer useful to you, you can reclaim your bathroom space with a fixture that will really serve your needs.

A bath should be therapeutic, not stressful. If getting in and out of a traditional tub is a difficult or even dangerous task for you do to independently, a walk in bath tub is a simple solution to your problem. With all the options a walkintub offers, you can achieve the relaxing effects of a bath, despite limited mobility. Whether you are a sufferer of joint pain due to arthritis, a senior citizen with limited limberness, or is you are simply effected by a back or limb injury, a walk in tubs can be your answer. For ease and comfort, look into your various tub options at www.ellasbubbles.com.

2010 is approaching, and so is the time to let your design muse to help decorate your home into something that is more uniquely you. Start small by focusing on a room that could be an excellent expression of your personal style but currently isn’t – the bathroom.
Simple steps such as introducing glass mosaic tile can brighten a bathroom’s atmosphere and produce soothing sensations. Glass tiles come in a variety of different color combinations, resulting in a variety of options as to how one can design their own personal bathroom. Whether you want a lighter earthy feel or are thinking of using brighter, more vibrant colors to appeal to all the senses, the choice is yours.
Keep in mind there are also several types of tiles in the market place to choose from. For instance, if you wanted to designate one color for the bathroom, you can choose to use a translucent glass tile or iridescent glsass mosaics with a color that fits your liking. On the other hand, if you wanted to experiment with a more inventive look, you can go with the more artistic painted glass mosaic tiles with a unique blend of colors and designs that can really open your bathroom up.
Glass mosaic tiles are just one of the many choices that are offered by Ella’s Bubbles to liven up the bathroom, and the company is committed on offering the best products with the lowest price in mind. Quality and affordability aren’t just words at Ella’s Bubbles, they are standards. Discounted glass mosaic don’t mean cheap glass mosaics. That is our goal to deliver luxury glass mosaic and porcelain tile at afordable prices.

Our porcelain wall or floor tile comes in diferent colors and shapes. Click here to see our porcelain tiles in beige wood finsih black white grey slate and other finishes.

In this economy, a new home may be too much to ask for. Although it’s a good market to buy in, you may have a hard time finding financing for a new home or selling your old home. So where can you make improvements to your home that will really increase its value and enhance its livability while you’re still there?
Changes to a small space might be your answer; a bathroom renovations can give your living space the luxury you’ve been missing. Also, a home’s age is the most conspicuous in its bathroom. Beyond simple wear and tear, if you have dated bathroom fixtures, floor and wall tile or colors in your bathroom, they are a dead give-away that your house hasn’t seen a makeover in quite a while.
So, where do you start a bathroom makeover? Well, making sure the character of your bath matches the décor of your home is a start. If you’ve populated your home with modern furnishings, but your bathroom is stuck in the 1970s, the discontinuity can be distracting to you or to potential buyers. Choosing bath fixtures, tile colors and patterns that are modern and match your décor will create a flow within the home. Avoid having to do this often by choosing bathroom fixtures that are classic and will look good now, and that will age well and are versatile enough to look appropriate in years to come.
Choosing fixtures for your bathroom is also a matter of space and layout. Small bathrooms are not improved by modern fixtures if they are too large for the space available! A relaxing bathroom is well designed to give the impression of space, even if the area truly isn’t there in the square footage. Sleek, clean fixtures can enhance a small bathroom by offering more uninterrupted space than ornate fixtures or patterned surfaces.
Until you can upgrade to a new place entirely, your best alternative just might be a remodeled bathroom. With attention to detail, and a few design changes, a renovated bathroom can rejuvenate your entire home.

Our goal is to offer luxury in bathing products at affordable prices.

Ella’s Bubbles is a manufacturer and premium distributor of walk-in bathtubs, bathroom vanities, glass vessels and porcelain sinks and glass mosaic tile. If you have ever considered purchasing a walk in bath tub, because of limited mobility or limberness, now is the time to finally invest in one! Our beautifu lacrylic walk-in tubs are available at unbelievably low prices, and will allow you the independence to take a relaxing bath safely in your own home.

For showrooms, developers, industry professionals or contractors, we can offer you especially low prices on our walk in tubssimply because we can afford to do it. Because we have the flexibility to strategically consolidate less-than-container and container orders from multiple factories and pinpoint them for a common destination, our clients reap the benefits of shared costs and scheduled one step delivery. As you may know that acrylic walkin tubs are far better quality than fiberglass walk in tubs. Our acrylic walk in tubs are easy to clean, pleasant to touch and view.

Visit our website to learn more and a view our outstanding selection of products like shower panels ,shower stalls, vanity faucets, bathroom vanities, porcelain tile, glass mosaics, sauna heaters, steam rooms, porcelain sinks, glass vessel sinks, sink drains, bathroom mirrors.