Bathroom Remodeling For Accessibility
The bathroom can be a hazardous place for anyone, but for older people, who just are not as steady on their feet as they once were, they can be particularly dangerous. A carefully planned bathroom remodel can remove many of these dangers, allow older persons to retain their sense of independence and give loved ones a little extra piece of mind. Here are a few simple ways you can make the bathroom safer:
Walk in Bathtubs
Climbing out of the bathtub onto a wet floor can result in a slip and fall accident no matter what your age, but such falls can be life threatening for some seniors. A walk-in bath tub is the solution of choice for many. Watertight doors allow easy access and minimize tripping dangers. Walk-in bath tubs come in all shapes and sizes and the higher end models feature all the same bells and whistles as a “regular” luxury bath tub, including whirlpool and water jet features. Some walk-in bath tubs also come with an electronically powered bath seat that makes getting in and out of the tub even easier. Consult a bathroom remodeling specialist to find out which options will not only fit your needs but your budget as well.
Transfer Benches
A transfer bench is a removable alternative to a walk in bathtub. A transfer bench is affixed to one side of a tub and the user then sits on the seat and either slides or swivels into the tub. It is obviously important that a transfer bench can handle the weight of anyone who will be using it, so shop carefully. Most standard transfer benches can only safely support a person who weighs 250 pounds or under, so if the person you are shopping for is a little heavier, ask to see what are known as bariatric models.
Grab Bars
Grab bars are helpful for anyone, not just those who are elderly. For maximum safety grab bars should be installed in multiple locations around the bathroom, not just in the tub or shower. Installing grab bars does not have to detract from the look of a well designed bathroom, as these days they can be found in designer colors and finishes and can even be purchased to match a fancy new faucet.
Wider Doors
If you are undertaking a bathroom remodeling project in a home where an elderly or infirm person lives, now might be a good time to consider widening the door a little. Even if your loved ones are not currently using a wheelchair to help them get around, that may very well happen somewhere down the line. Addressing the concern now will save having to pay for a second bathroom remodel in the future. For even easier bathroom access, consider replacing your traditional bathroom door with a sliding version.
Although you can undertake such a remodeling project yourself, a good bathroom remodeling contractor can help you plan, design and build a bathroom that will allow an older person to retain their sense of independence and dignity in the bathroom without sacrificing style or comfort.
Please go to http://www.renovationexperts.com For a more detailed information
Posted: February 14th, 2010 under Bathrooms.
Tags: ELDERLY, REMODELING FOR ACCESSIBILITY, SAFER BATHROOM