Home is a place of comfort and a place of deep attachment. But, as people age, their physical abilities and needs start to change, and their homes may not always reflect that. To sustain that warmth and comfort, accommodations may be in order. The bathroom is where you’ll need to start as there are likely many safety concerns that need adjustments.
Potential Modifications
The bathroom is one of the riskiest parts of the house for injuries and accidents. Modifying it is key to keeping it safe, healthy, and comfortable, and there are many solutions.
Some general safety precautions will significantly benefit older adults. Installing bathroom grab bars in areas around the toilet, shower, and sink will allow for easy movement and stability. There are many different types of bars, ranging from rails to standing poles, that can help an older adult stand up in the bath. They are affordable as well, which makes them a fantastic basic solution. Adding grip tape to the bars will also prevent slips or falls if their hands are wet. Another way to prevent falls is by improving flooring. Non-slip bath mats and rugs will help decrease the risk of falls, and a less expensive option is to simply add non-slip tape to bathtubs.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Beyond these general additions, there are many specific areas of concern, including the door itself. First of all, they need to be wheelchair accessible, i.e. wide enough to accommodate the wheels. However, the cost for this modification will vary depending on the electrical and insulation features in the surrounding walls.
Sink
Next is the sink. Sinks are generally not a safety concern, but using a twist faucet can inconvenience seniors with limited strength and mobility. Switching faucets to lever handles is a relatively inexpensive and easy solution. For those who can not use their hands, foot-operated faucets are also available.
Toilet
Another problem area is the toilet. Getting on and off the toilet is difficult for older adults with less strength, and there’s always a threat of slipping and falling. Besides installing rails and bars, there are safety frames with arms that can be installed directly on the sides of the toilet to help seniors stand. Raising the toilet seat itself can also help. These two options can be combined, and there are many toilet seat raisers with arms that are also good additions.
Shower/Bathtub
The shower or bathtub is the feature most in need of attention. This usually requires more modifications than other parts of the bathroom to avoid slipping and make it easier for those with less strength to stand up. Changing a bathtub to a walk-in shower is a dramatic modification, but it will make it significantly easier to walk in and out of. However, if that isn’t possible, many attachments or individual items will make showering much more manageable. Even just changing a showerhead to a handheld spray attachment will make showering easier for those who can’t stand for extended periods. A shower chair will also be helpful.
Bathroom modifications are essential for older adults to enjoy life in their own homes. Making it easier to get around will ensure that staying at home is just as safe as it is comfortable.
