So many great things come with age: the wisdom, experience, and memories are richer and more meaningful in our golden years. Yet aging also comes with changes that can make everyday tasks more challenging — especially if mobility limitations are involved.
One area of the home in particular can have a significant impact on our quality of life: the bathroom. It’s where the majority of dangerous accidents happen in the home for older adults — but it’s also a room that’s relatively easy to adapt and make safer. An accessible bathroom, sometimes referred to as a “handicap bathroom,” accommodates individuals with physical limitations and allows them to perform everyday routines safely and independently.
Let’s take a closer look at how to make your bathroom more accessible and the many benefits it can provide.
Why Is Accessibility Important?
Aging in place has become a popular option for older adults who prefer to stay in their homes as long as possible. According to a recent survey by the AARP, 77% of adults over 50 “want to remain in their homes for the long term.” Making accessibility modifications to create a handicap bathroom comes with several important benefits, including:
Reducing the Risk of Falls
Safety should be a top priority for any senior who wants to age in place. Slippery surfaces, inadequate lighting, and lack of grab bars can increase the risk of falls, which can have serious consequences.
Promoting Independence
An accessible bathroom empowers individuals to maintain their daily routines without relying heavily on others. This sense of freedom and mobility also enhances a person’s mental and emotional health.
Improving Quality of Life
A bathroom that accommodates your needs can significantly upgrade your comfort and well-being. You can continue to enjoy the home you love without the worry of being a burden to others.
What Is a “Handicap” Bathroom?
Accessible bathrooms (as well as other areas of the home) are becoming more commonplace in residential living spaces. A “handicap” bathroom is designed to make it easier and safer for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations to perform their daily routines.
The most typical modifications used to create an accessible bathroom include features such as:
- Grab bars — Strategically placed grab bars provide support for entering and exiting the shower, bathtub or toilet.
- Non-slip flooring — Slip-resistant flooring reduces the risk of falls and serious injuries in wet areas.
- Accessible toilets — Raised toilets or toilet seats make it easier to sit down and stand up.
- Accessible showers and bathtubs — Walk-in showers or roll-in tubs eliminate the need to step over a high curb, which can be unstable and dangerous.
- Accessible vanities — Lower vanities or cabinets with accessible under-sink storage can make it easier to reach toiletries and perform grooming tasks.
- Automated controls — Instant on/off lighting and water controls are very helpful for people with limited dexterity.
The Benefits of Creating an Accessible Bathroom
Beyond safety and independence, an accessible bathroom offers numerous benefits:
Increased Comfort
A bathroom that accommodates your everyday needs and makes it easy to care for yourself helps day-to-day life remain more enjoyable and relaxing.
Improved Quality of Life
An accessible bathroom can significantly enhance your overall well-being because you have more confidence in performing tasks independently and living life on your terms.
Enhanced Property Value
Accessible bathrooms can increase the value of your home, making it more desirable for future buyers. In fact, many home builders these days use building principles to construct more homes that are accessible to a wider range of people.
How to Get Home Modifications Done
If you’re considering creating an accessible bathroom, here are some steps you can take:
- Assess your needs. Identify specific features that would make your bathroom more accessible. Does anything feel unsafe or difficult to use?
- Consult with a professional. A certified aging-in-place specialist — like those at Havenside — can help you assess your home and recommend appropriate modifications. They’re experts in creating safer spaces for aging adults.
- Contact a home improvement contractor. A reputable contractor with experience in accessibility modifications can handle the installation of your bathroom modifications. While simple tasks like changing light bulbs can be easy to do on your own, it’s best to let a professional handle any construction work.
- Explore financing options. If needed, explore financing options to help cover the cost of modifications. Loans, grants, and other financial assistance is available.
Havenside: Your Compassionate Partner for Aging in Place
If you live in the greater Pittsburgh area, let Havenside be your personal expert in assessing your home modification needs. Our mission is to help homeowners assess their accessibility needs so we can help you age in place comfortably and safely. Our team of experts can evaluate your home (including your bathrooms, kitchen, and entryways), recommend appropriate upgrades, and handle the entire installation and inspection process.
Contact Havenside today to learn more about how we can help you create a handicap bathroom that meets your unique needs and enhances your quality of life.
