As we get older, we discover that there are fewer things requiring physical ability, that we can do as fast and as efficiently as we used to. And when it comes to the bathroom, there are certain bathroom remodeling modifications we may need to consider, as there are items that can be used to increase independence and mobility in the bathroom.
Due to great mobility concerns for the aged, a bathroom must be made simple but beautiful with a design that is easily accessible and safe.
We must also remember the ill and handicapped seniors. If aged family members fall into this category, it's advisable to carry out some form of bathroom remodeling to enable them bathe, wash, and use other bathroom facilities with ease and comfort.
Why Bathroom Remodeling For The Elderly?
Because of the many hazards lurking in almost every corner of the bathroom. Slips and falls while going into, or, getting out of a bath tub is the most common of accidents in the bathroom.
However if there aren't plans to carry out bathroom remodeling works, and the existing bathtub must stay, then the solution is to place a good quality, non-skid, latex-coated bath mat on the floor beside the bathtub. This provides firm footing before stepping into the tub. And non-slip suction decorative mats or rubber silicone appliqués stuck in the bathtub will help prevent nasty falls whilst bathing.
Bathroom Remodeling Recommendations For Seniors
Bathroom remodeling works recommended for senior citizens include the following features.
The Floor
- All stray objects and clutter must be removed from the floor. With bathroom remodeling for the aged, designs must have absolutely clear floors. No laundry baskets, no stands. And that includes the removal of vanities too. The usee of vanities with pedestal bases are suggested.
- There must be some form of floor covering over the bare floor. Some form of carpeting. If hard floors such as marble are left bare, chances are water spills will cause a bad falls. Another better alternative to wall to wall carpeting is to have a solid hardwood floating floor, with some textured eco-friendly mat placed as an area rug.
The Walls
- The aged need support whilst moving around the bathroom, especially whilst getting in and out of the bathtub or shower enclosure. Bathroom remodeling for seniors must include installations of grab bars for this extra support and also as some form of hold-on whilst in the shower .
- All appliances must be removed from the bathroom. All electrical equipments such as hair dryers, electric razors and electric toothbrushes must be used safely away from water, and so should not be part of bathroom remodeling plans for a senior friendly bathroom design idea.
Bathroom Sanitary Ware and Other Recommendations
A walk-in tub is an advisable and a recommended bathroom remodeling feature for the bathroom of the elderly. It provides great safety and ease of use. The entry at a low level makes it easier for access into the bathtub. Simply open the door, walk in and close the low door. They can then sit down on the built-in shower seat, and turn the faucet on.
On the other hand, if finances don’t allow for extensive bathroom remodeling, installing a shower seat is a great option to accommodate the seniors. Converting the bathtub into a walk-in shower and installing an extra step or small ramp on the side of the bathtub for easier entry is another good alternative, if resources are low.
Bathroom remodeling must include a floating bathroom vanity, with space below it to slide a wheelchair under, in case required. This allows for the wheelchair to be stored close by while bathing or showering. Lower the heights of medicine cabinets, shelves, and other necessities to a comfortable, easy-to-reach height.
Consider changing cabinet knobs and replace with cabinet pulls. Knobs are much harder to grasp, especially for someone with arthritis or other difficulties such as rheumatism. Cabinet pulls, on the other hand, offer a larger area for grasping, are much easier on the hand, plus they have a decorative and lovely look. Also, consider lever handles during plans for bathroom remodeling works for the elderly.
An important bathroom remodeling recommendation, is to enhance the bathroom with adequate and effective lighting. Aging is not so kind to the eyes, and we need more light than we used to. Avoid too much white light as it can cause a glare. It’s best therefore, to renovate with direct lighting. Adding light above the vanity mirror or placing scones on either side of the mirror will help tremendously. Adding a light above the shower cubicle and one over the toilet must be considered.
On A Final Note
Aging should empower seniors to feel more independent, safe and comfortable. So if it takes a few bathroom remodeling ideas to achieve this goal, then it’s certainly worth the time and money!
Virginia Iyabo Smith - Virginia Iyabo is a professional interior designer, an interior design consultant, and a custom furniture designer. She started writing ...
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