How to Make a Bathroom Senior-Friendly
Making simple changes can benefit seniors, from reducing accidents to increasing independence.
As people age, issues like poor muscle strength, joint pain, lack of flexibility and balance, and failing eyesight make it more and more difficult for them to perform basic everyday tasks, including using the bathroom. Using the toilet, faucets, bathtub, or shower becomes challenging for them with each passing day. Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous home areas for older adults and pose an increased risk of accidents and falls due to slippery surfaces, small spaces, and lack of adequate support.
As the bathroom is the space everyone uses every day, there is an increased need to increase their safety and make them more comfortable and accessible for aging adults. Here are a few simple upgrades to consider to create a senior-friendly bathroom:
Increase the toilet height
Several seniors find sitting down and standing up from the toilet challenging. Hire a professional plumber to install a new raised toilet or elevate the height of the existing toilet by a few inches by installing a raised seat to allow them to use the commode comfortably.
Consider a shower and tub upgrade
Bathtubs are impossible to access for many older adults. Similarly, a shower area with high curbs is hard to use for people who use a wheelchair or walker. A walk-in tub with a built-in seat is much easier to access than traditional bathtubs. Alternatively, install a shower seat and a handheld, adjustable attachment to help seniors enjoy a warm shower. A walk-in shower is another popular alternative to consider.
Replace standard faucets with lever faucets
Twisting and turning the standard faucet knobs gets difficult for elders with stiff joints or limited mobility. Consider replacing the traditional knob faucets with ones with lever or touchless motion sensors to ensure ease of use and minimize burn risk.
Place non-slip mats
Accidental slips and falls due to wet floors are very common in bathrooms and can have severe consequences for seniors. If the budget allows, replace the flooring with non-slip tiles or slip-proof rubber mats with a firm grip outside the shower, bathtub, bathroom, and in front of the sink and toilet.
Mount grab bars or handrails
Another easy way to make a bathroom safe and elderly-friendly are to install grab bars or safety rails. Add them strategically near the toilet, shower area, and other areas for increased safety. The experience of using a bathroom becomes better, and chances of falls reduce when seniors have something to grab onto while sitting, standing, or moving.
Additional tips to make bathrooms safer for seniors:
Place an emergency phone at a reachable height
Keep the bathroom clutter-free, and it should have adequate space to walk around freely.
Install handy storage solutions and keep all the required items within their reach.
Ensure the bathroom is well-lit
Consider an outward swinging door
Make the bathroom safe for seniors
Making simple changes can benefit seniors, from reducing accidents to increasing independence. Please get help from a local plumber to create a safe, relaxing, accessible, and enjoyable bathroom space for seniors.
Frontier Plumbing of Las Vegas is a full-service commercial and residential plumbing company offering a full spectrum of plumbing services. We are determined to exceed your expectations! Call 702-602-6705 today!