The bathroom is one of the most practically important parts of the home, and being able to use it is vital for everyone living there. If you have an older parent living with you, or you are dealing with a long-term injury or disability, the shortcomings of the average bathroom can suddenly become very apparent. But what can you do to better suit it to the needs of everyone who uses it? Here are a few tips.
Grab Bars And Support Rails
Stability and confidence are vital, especially in a room where wet floors can be a slip risk. Adding grab bars and support near the toilet, shower, and bathtub can be helpful for people who have limited mobility or balance concerns. Make sure that any rails you add are rust-resistant and firmly secured to the wall, with a textured grip to make them easier to hold onto.
Toilet Height Matters
If you or a loved one has any mobility challenges, then standard toilets might actually be too low to sit and stand comfortably. There are options known as “comfort height” toilets that are taller, usually around 18 inches, that tend to be ergonomically better and easier to use. You can also get models with elongated bowls and larger seats that add a little extra comfort and lessen the risk of falling when getting on or off.
Convert Your Bath
Although bathtubs might be a comfort to some, they can quickly become an obstacle and even a safety hazard for people with mobility issues. Stepping over a high tub can be challenging, and the risk of slipping is serious, even with grab bars. Swapping out your bathtub for a shower cubicle with the help of teams like newbathtech.com may not be as complicated as it seems. Often, you make use of much of the same plumbing that’s already there. A low-threshold or curbless shower reduces the risk of slips and falls while providing a modern, open look. Install grab bars, a built-in bench, and non-slip tiles to maximize safety and comfort.
Consider Lighting And Visibility
To ensure that the bathroom is as safe as possible, accessible lighting is a must. Work with teams like astrolighting.com to install bright, glare-free lighting around mirrors, over the shower, and in the general space to prevent shadows and improve visibility. You might also want to consider motion-sensor or smart lighting systems to make them even safer at night.
Plan Your Layout Well
A good bathroom makes it easy to access the spaces you need to use. Clear pathways to the essentials can be vital. If you’re accommodating a wheelchair user, then you might want to choose floating vanities and pedestal sinks to allow them to move their chair underneath. Keep everyday items like toiletries and towels within reach by installing open shelving or adjustable-height cabinets.
The bathroom should be a sanctuary where you can relax, but it’s not always easy. The tips above can hopefully outline some options on how to make it much better suited to your needs.