How to Plan a Bathroom Remodel for Seniors
When planning a bathroom remodel for a senior, installing grab bars in key areas is a good idea.
As Canada’s Baby Boomer generation advances in age, it is becoming more important to ensure they remain safe and comfortable in their homes. One of the most common areas where accidents occur is in the bathroom, which is why a seniors-focused bathroom remodel is a worthwhile consideration.
Falling is one of the greatest risks seniors face, and by making improvements in several key areas, you’ll provide a wider margin of safety while making this space more accessible and enjoyable.
There are several factors that can increase the risk of falling in the bathroom:
- Wet, slippery surfaces
- Poor lighting
- Inaccessible bathroom fixtures
- Lack of room
Bathroom Location
Every time a senior (or anyone for that matter) has to climb a set of stairs, there’s a risk of falling. If you have to go up and down a set of stairs every time you have to relieve yourself, it can also become a nuisance.
To reduce the risk of injury, and to make it more convenient, consider installing a bathroom on every floor (even a half-bathroom will suffice in most cases). This might be more challenging and costly than a bathroom remodel project, but it’s hard to put a price on safety.
Grab Bars
Many seniors have mobility issues, and it can be comforting to have something to hold onto while they reposition themselves or while they attempt to regain their footing. When renovating bathrooms for seniors, installing grab bars will provide the support they need to move about securely. The areas where grab bars are particularly useful include the:
- Bathtub
- Toilet
- Shower
- Sink
Lighting
The older we get, the worse our vision becomes, especially in low light. To reduce the chance of tripping over an unseen object, or slipping on a wet surface, it’s a good idea to have a well-lit bathroom area.
Accessibility
Many seniors require the assistance of mobility devices such as:
- Wheelchairs
- Walkers
- Canes
If the bathroom is too narrow or congested, changes might be needed to make it more accessible for seniors who depend on this type of equipment. This could include removing hampers and cabinets, or possibly replacing a bulky vanity with one that takes up less space.
Bathing
One of the most challenges activities for seniors in the bathroom is bathing. Whether it’s transferring their weight into the bathtub or showering on a slippery surface, it can be difficult. For those with joint issues, such as arthritis, it can also be painful.
In addition to the aforementioned grab bars, there are a number of bathroom renovations Kelowna seniors find handy. These include:
- Installing shower seats
- Retrofitting bathtubs with an open step
- Installing bathtubs with a sealed door for easier access
By working with an experienced contractor that has experience in renovating bathrooms, you’ll have peace of mind knowing the job was done right. To learn more about this, read: Why Use Pros for Bathroom Renovations Kelowna Residents Love?
Do you have a plan for a bathroom remodel that’s beyond your skill level? Enlist the help of professionals by calling Rafter 4K Contracting.
