Do you know a friend or family member who is finding it difficult to safely manoeuvre in their current bathroom due to a disability or aging? If so, read on for necessary bathroom modifications to make their bathroom time safer and easier.
There are all kinds of home renovation projects, and renovating a bathroom doesn't have to be a major undertaking. Depending upon the person's condition, adding things like rails on the walls, in the bathtub/shower, and non-skid flooring in the bottom of the tub can be sufficient. Adding a "shower chair", which allows the person to sit down while enjoying a shower, can also be beneficial. However, for someone who needs even more safety measures, there are ways to increase safety and mobility without breaking the bank.
Some of the basic safety/convenience features that can be added to a bathroom include ramps for those who use a mobile scooter or are wheelchair bound but still value their freedom. If this is the case, making the door wider is a must. Hand rails on the walls, especially next to the toilet and inside the bathtub/shower are also a must. If the current bathtub or shower is problematic, it would be a wise choice to invest in a "step-in" bathtub, which is as the name implies--a stand-alone bathtub that has a door. Once inside, the door closes securely, and the person is able to sit down and enjoy a bath, complete with whirlpool jets. Adding non-skid bath mats in front of the bathtub/shower, as well as the sink, will also help to reduce the risk of falls.
One thing most people don't consider when creating a disabled bathroom for the disabled or elderly is the shelving. Making sure that the person has stable, eye-level shelves helps reduce the need for bending over (which could easily lead to a fall) to get whatever they need, such as toothpaste, toilet paper, etc. Also, having sturdy shelves instead of shaky ones that aren't attached to anything can also serve as something for the person to grab onto in case they are about to fall. Installing a heat lamp can be an added convenience, as most elderly people become cold very easily, especially after a bath or shower. Adding hooks on the back of the door will come in handy as well, since the person will be able to easily access things such as a shower cap if they use one, or their robe to ward off any chills.
Another thing to consider is the temperature on the water heater. Make sure the temperature is adjusted so that the person doesn't get burned when starting a bath or shower, or even washing their face or brushing their teeth at the sink. While burns are already serious in nature, burns suffered by the elderly or disabled can be downright deadly. Also, make sure the light fixtures and switches are within easy reach. If the person is still able to change a light bulb, make sure the light fixtures aren't too high or otherwise situated that would make it difficult for someone to access.
Installing a cabinet in the bathroom for towels and wash cloths is another convenience that can be added. That would reduce the risk of someone getting out of the bath tub or shower and realizing that they have no towel with which to dry off. Since walking with wet feet can pose a fall risk, it's wise to make sure that every possible measure is taken to ensure the elderly or disabled person's safety.
James Duggan is a freelance blogger and copywriter who writes on such topics as home improvements and DIY
0 comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you very much for your time! I am would love to hear your thoughts.