Bathroom safety tips and get up and sit down test for toilets

Get up and sit down test for Toilets

A “get up and sit down test” on a toilet refers to a simple assessment where a person attempts to sit down on the toilet and then stand back up again without using their hands or any other assistance, essentially testing their leg strength and balance needed for basic bathroom functions, often used to evaluate potential mobility issues for all adults.

Key points about the test.

Purpose of the get up and sit down test

To assess lower body strength and balance by measuring how easily someone can transition from sitting to standing on a toilet.
1) How to perform: Sit on the toilet seat with feet flat on the floor.
2) Try to stand up without using your hands to push off or lean on anything.
3) Sit back down again, repeating the process a few times.

Interpretation

1) Difficulty standing up without assistance could indicate weakness in the legs or balance issues.
2) A healthcare professional may use this test to identify potential risks for falls or recommend further assessments

Bathroom safety tips

• Lighting. Install good lighting and night lights, and use soft white bulbs to avoid glare. Lower light switches so that wheelchair users can access them.
• Install a medical alert button: Keep a medical alert button near the toilet so someone can call for help if needed.
• Use non-slip surfaces: Install non-slip mats in the shower and tub, and use slip-resistant surfaces on the bathroom floor.
• Handheld shower head. Install a handheld showerhead so you can turn on the water once you’re already in the shower or tub.
• Adjust the water heater: Set the water heater to 120°F and test the hot water before putting children in the tub.
• Install safety bars: Install safety bars inside the tub and shower.
• Use a weighted shower curtain: A weighted shower curtain can help keep water off the bathroom floor.
• Install a walk-in shower or tub: A walk-in shower or tub can be a good option for people of all ages and abilities.
• Keep items within reach: Keep items in easy-to-reach locations to reduce the risk of falls.
• Install a ground-fault electrical outlet: Hire an electrician to install ground-fault electrical outlets.
• Install a bathroom door that swings out: A bathroom door that swings out can make it easier for someone to access the bathroom if someone falls.
• Declutter. Add organizational items to keep things off the floor and reduce the risk of falls. 
• Electrical safety. Store cords away from water sources, cap electrical outlets with safety covers, and avoid using space heaters or extension cords in the bathroom. 
• And of course, install the Convenient Height tall toilet for elevation and ease of the getting up on the toilet and sitting down on the toilet comfortably, conveniently and of course, safely.