If you answered No, here's what you can do:

• A non-slip surface should cover the length of the bathtub.
• A non-slip bathmat should not move once installed.
• If using non-slip decals, ensure that they are replaced before they are worn. Worn non-slip decals offer no protection against slipping.
• Anti-slip decals should be placed no more than 2 inches apart.
• Do not use bath oil, it can make the surface of the tub very slippery.

If you answered No, here's what you can do:

• Use a non-skid bath mat on the floor beside the tub to ensure firm footing.
• You can purchase safe mat with rubber backing from various department stores.
• You can ask for it as a gift from your friends or family.

If you answered No, here's what you can do:

• You should have two grab bars, at a minimum: One that is vertically positioned on the wall that you most often face when starting to get into the bathtub (either the faucet wall or wall opposite the faucet). One placed horizontally on the back wall. This bar will help you to get in and out or the tub, as well as sit into and get up from the bottom of the tub.
• Make sure that the bars are well positioned for your use. An occupational therapist can help you to fit the bars to your needs.
• Grab bars cost between $45 and $100 and are available at drugstores, hardware stores, and medical supply stores.
• Grab bars should be installed by an expert .
• Most specialty stores where they sell grab bars can provide you with a list of installers in your area.
• Call your local home support agency most of them can help with household repairs.
• Many people who cannot install grab bars in their bathtub because the wall will not support it use a horseshoe shaped bar on the bath rim. These are not as stable, but if properly secured, can be useful. Be careful not to trip over these.
• Grab bars should have a slip-resistant or rough textured surface.
• If you are moving to a new home, ask whether the bathtub comes equipped with grab bars or whether the bathtub wall will support them.
• Call CMHC (613) 748-2000 (Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation), HASI Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence program, they can provide some funds to assist you in installing bath grab bars. Also see Handout 3: Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence.

If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:

• Use a bath bench, chair or stool. You can buy one at your local medical supply store or pharmacy. They have a variety which you can choose from.A bath bench cost between $60-$150.
• The bath bench should have rubber tips and be adjusted to your needs.
• Use a hand held flexible shower arm.
• Make sure you use your grab bars when getting in and out of the bathtub.

If you answered No, here's what you can do:

• The recommended location of grab bars are:
  • 1 grab bar on each side of the toilet, hinged at the wall to swing up and out of the way when desired or
  • 1 grab bar on the rear wall of the toilet, a second bar on the side wall and a third diagonal bar placed at a 45' angle on the wall beside the toilet and in front of the horizontal bar.
• Call CMHC (613) 748-2000 (Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation), HASI Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence program, they can provide some funds to assist you in installing grab bars. Also see Handout 3: Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence.

If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:

• Use your toilet grab bar.
• Consider installing a raised toilet seat. Most of these are elevated from the typical seat, making it easier to sit down and get up from the toilet. Some are molded and fixed in height (about 4 inches) while others are adjustable, usually between 3 to 6 inches. Your local medical supply store will have a variety for you to choose from.
• Permanent raised toilet seats can be installed by a plumber.