As you or your loved ones get older, safely maintaining your independence becomes just as important as taking care of your general health. Even if basic tasks become difficult, it’s understandable that people would still want to take care of themselves without assistance. If you’re considering a bathroom remodel in the near future, there are many features and fixtures you can install to make sure you, your family, and any guests can comfortably and safely handle their needs without assistance.
Slip-Resistant Flooring
If a full remodel is a bit out of your price range, one of the cheapest and most effective ways to prevent bathroom injury is by installing non-slip mats or other surfaces that prevent missteps. Slip-resistant rugs can be placed on the bathroom floor, while adhesive strips can be attached to pre-existing shower and bath surfaces.
When remodeling your shower or bath, you can opt for specially designed slip-resistant flooring. Mosaic tiling and many other options are available, allowing you to make your tub safe and stylish.
Proper Lighting
Proper lighting is necessary to create a safe environment on the way to and throughout the bathroom. Your bathroom should be well-lit during the day and night to prevent guests and family members from falling or stumbling around in the dark. If the hallway to your bathroom isn’t well-lit, consider installing additional lighting or getting a nightlight to place in the bathroom so it’s easy to find. The lighting in the bathroom itself should properly illuminate all spaces, including the vanity and shower areas.
Grab Bars
Even with slip-resistant flooring, it’s sometimes hard to maintain your balance, especially after getting out of a wet shower or standing up after sitting on the toilet for an extended period of time. Some elderly people might find it helpful to hold onto towel bars or other fixtures to support themselves, but these are not designed to support someone’s weight.
Instead, consider installing grab bars throughout your bathroom. Most are made of slip-resistant materials, meaning they can be placed in or out of the shower. A bar next to the toilet and tub, at the very least, will give your elderly family and friends more independence.
Walk-In Tubs
Sometimes a bath is just better than a shower, especially if you’re looking to relax after a long trip or family visit. But baths aren’t accessible for older adults or those who have severe joint pain and arthritis, and showers aren’t really possible if you have difficulty standing. Adding a walk-in tub can make your bathroom usable by everyone.
Walk-in tubs allow you to bathe standing or sitting down on a comfortable bench. Entry is possible through a watertight door that closes behind you, meaning you can fill up the tub as high as you’d like without the worry of flooding the bathroom floor. The enclosed space is slip-resistant and leaves more than enough room for a grab-bar to be installed nearby, offering people of all ages a comfortable and independent bathing experience.
Kitchen and Bath Designers in the Greater Phoenix Area
The designers at Re-Bath have been leaders in the kitchen and bathroom renovation market for more than 30 years. We proudly complete more than 500 remodels each year, all while upholding our high customer service standards. Contact us today to begin designing the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams!
