As we watch commercials about safety for our seniors, the one thing that comes to mind at Middletown Kitchen and Bath are thoughts about seniors who are choosing to stay in their home verses moving into an assisted living facility or nursing home. Those seniors who decide to stay in their home need to make sure they can do so safely and independently.

There are several bathroom remodeling tips for seniors that allow them to freely move throughout the bathroom without the risk of slips and falls and we wanted to share a few of them with you including options such as walk-in bathtubs, showers, grab bars, lighting and more.

According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, about 235,000 people seek medical help due to bathroom-related injuries each year. The most important thing to bear in mind when remodeling a bathroom for the elderly is their safety.

Here are some ideas to consider when remodeling a bathroom specially designed for an aging senior.

1. Bathtub/shower – Walk-in tubs are one of the best bathtubs for seniors, given the many safety features they include. Most walk-in tubs include safety bars/railings, seating, and non-slip floors. All walk-in bathtubs are lower to the ground, which makes entering and exiting the tub a breeze that requires little effort.Make sure to browse different tub options to get the best deal and the most features.

Some walk-in tubs may not include other features such as a fixed showerhead, handheld showerhead with adjustable settings, or whirlpool jets, for relaxation. When shopping for a walk-in tub or shower, be sure to consider these features before purchasing the tub.

2. Toilet – Install a senior-friendly toilet, one that is a chair-height toilet which will give the senior freedom to sit and stand with minimal effort. A special lift chair is also available to assist in the lifting and lowering of an individual.

3. Non-slip flooring – Carpeted bath rugs or bath mats with a non-skid feature works well for preventing slips. Bath mats are less expensive than replacing the flooring but make sure they have a grip and are non-skid to prevent falling accidents.

4. Height adjustments – Lowering the sink or toilet can make a major difference in a senior’s comfort level within their bathroom. If the senior uses a wheelchair, make sure to include enough knee clearance so they can comfortably get to and from the sink.

5. Providing extra safety – Install grab bars throughout the bathroom where they are needed the most.  Place a handrail next to the toilet, bathtub, or shower, basically, wherever a senior would need additional support to pull themselves up. You may also want to install a telephone line or alert system in the bathroom, just in case of an accident. Having an available resource to contact people for help, when in need, could prevent serious injuries in the bathroom.

6. Light fixtures – Seniors typically have impaired vision, so replacing the light fixtures will eliminate shadows and unnecessary prevent bumps and bruises. One other great idea for brightening a bathroom is a vanity mirror, plug in night lights are also a great addition.

If you need assistance in designing or remodeling a bathroom for your senior, please call us today as we would be glad to assist.  Oh, and don’t forget, once you get that newly remodeled bathroom you’ll want to show it off, so keep it sanitized and clean with these few tips from our friends over at Home Viable

Enjoy the day!