Are you planning on staying in your home at the end of your life? If you have made plans to stay in your home as you age, there are several things you need to consider to make it as comfortable and accessible as possible.
Did you know that along with kitchens, bathrooms are one of the spaces homeowners use the most?
They also happen to be the most dangerous area in the home, especially as you age because of increased dangers such as slips, poor lighting and difficulty accessing certain parts of your bathroom.
Want to create an age proof bathroom that will continue to be comfortable, stylish and easy to use for years to come?
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your bathroom enjoyable:
- Install a Shower Bench
As you age, being able to sit and decrease the risks associated with showering (such as slipping and falling) is an important thing to incorporate when remodeling your bathroom. One of the easiest ways to do this is to have a completely transitioned bathtub or to simply add a shower bench and the proper accessibility tools. - Install easy to use tools such as grab bars and detachable showerheads Accessibility is key when you are creating an “Age-Proof” bathroom that will meet your changing needs.
These tools are extra important as they give you something for you to hold on to so you can safely navigate the space. Bonus tip: Grab bars are highly functional; they can also double as towel and robe racks.
- Trade your toilet out for one that is a bit taller
If you’ve never considered the strain a toilet has on your back and knees, not to worry: it isn’t something we often consider in a standard bathroom layout. But if you are planning on transitioning your bathroom to an accessible bathroom, having a toilet that is easy to get up from will once again reduce risks of falls or injuries. Not to mention being easier on your body and joints. - Choose features that will need LESS care and maintenance
While your dream bathroom may have expansive slabs of marble or endless glass, considering what needs the smallest amount of care and maintenance will help prepare you for the years to come – especially when cleaning the glass you so carefully chose requires you to teeter on the side of the tub. Make sure everything going into this rehabbed bathroom is easy to use, easy to clean and easy to access. One example is to have fewer grout lines like Re-Bath Durabath - Install an accessible tub
There are plenty of great options when it comes to changing out your standard tub or walk-in shower for an accessible tub. For those with limited mobility, installing a walk-in tub or shower base with slip-resistant technology is a great safety solution. Want to learn more?
PROTIP : Make sure you hire someone with the right certifications and expertise to make this process an easy one. The easiest way? Hire a Certified Aging in Place Specialist like us! The average bathtub replacement is the same cost or less than a hip replacement – but a whole lot less painful
The best part about transitioning your old bathroom? Not only will it now be more accessible, but it will also have a refreshed, beautiful look that helps you to turn that space into an oasis.
