As your loved one ages, their mobility may decline. They may also need more assistance with daily tasks, including using the bathroom. Bathrooms can pose challenges for seniors with mobility issues, as they can be slippery and difficult to navigate. Remodeling your bathroom to make it more accommodating for your elderly relative can go a long way in keeping them safe and independent.
Here are five tips on how to remodel your bathroom to make it more accessible for your elderly loved one.
Install Grab Bars
Installing grab bars in and around the bathtub, shower, and toilet can provide support and stability for your elderly relative. Grab bars come in a variety of colors and styles, making them easy to match with your bathroom décor. Be sure to have them professionally installed to ensure they are secure and can support your loved one's weight.
Adjust the Height of the Toilet
The standard height of a toilet may not be comfortable or safe for seniors. Installing a toilet with a higher seat or adding a raised toilet seat can make it easier for your elderly relative to sit down and stand up after using the toilet. This modification can prevent falls and improve your loved one's bathroom experience.
Install Slip-Resistant Flooring
Bathrooms can be slippery, especially when floors get wet. To help prevent falls, consider installing slip-resistant flooring. There are a variety of options available that are both durable and stylish, including tiles with texture or a non-skid coating. Plus, slip-resistant flooring can be easier to clean and maintain than traditional bathroom flooring options.
Consider a Walk-in Shower
Traditional bathtubs can be difficult for seniors to navigate, as they require stepping over the edge to get in and out. Adding a walk-in shower with a low threshold can make it easier for your aging relative to enter and leave the shower without getting hurt. Walk-in showers can also provide more space than traditional bathtubs if your loved one requires assistance while bathing.
Improve Lighting
Age-related vision changes can make it difficult for seniors to see well in the bathroom. Increasing the amount of lighting in the bathroom or adding light fixtures can improve visibility and prevent accidents. Installing motion sensor lighting can also be helpful for seniors who get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.
Remodeling your bathroom can be a great way to make life easier and safer for your elderly relative. By making adjustments like installing grab bars, adjusting the height of the toilet, installing slip-resistant flooring, considering a walk-in shower, and improving lighting, you can help your loved one maintain their independence and reduce the risk of bathroom-related accidents.
Contact a bathroom remodeling contractor to learn more.
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