The need to make one’s home more accessible is usually driven by a desire to age in place or accommodate a family member with a disability. Creating a living space that accommodates mobility limitations can significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults, allowing them to retain their independence and ensure a safer living environment.
As the most dangerous room in the house, the bathroom is often the first area that gets special attention when it comes to accessibility improvements. What does it take to plan a successful accessible bathroom remodel? Let’s take a look at the essential steps for making your bathroom as safe as possible.
What Is an Accessible Bathroom?
An accessible bathroom is one designed with features that make it safe and easy to use for people of all abilities. From wider doorways for wheelchair access to fixtures that help stabilize people with limited mobility, an accessible bathroom turns a potential obstacle into a place of comfort and convenience.
Homeowners can take advantage of numerous benefits from an accessible bathroom remodel. It offers increased safety and independence, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. It also adds value to your home by making it appealing to a broader range of potential buyers.
The most common features of an accessible bathroom include:
• Low Threshold or Barrier-free showers
• Grab bars
• Handrails
• Wheelchair-accessible sinks and toilets
• Non-slip flooring
• Adequate lighting
Assessing Your Current Bathroom
Before remodeling your bathroom for accessibility, take some time to assess its current state. Ask yourself if it meets your current needs and if not, identify the areas that need improvement.
A professional contractor can provide a thorough assessment of your bathroom’s accessibility, pointing out potential hazards and suggesting improvements. They can also help you understand how much work will be required and provide a cost estimate.
Planning Your Accessible Bathroom Remodel
Once you’ve evaluated your current bathroom, start planning your remodel based on your needs and preferences. Be sure to think about your future needs, as well; the older we get, the greater the need for accessibility features. If you plan to age in place, think about how your mobility might change over the next few years.
There are countless stylish and practical options available for re-designing an accessible bathroom. It doesn’t have to be clinical or sterile; it can be as stylish as any other bathroom in your home!
Key Elements of an Accessible Bathroom
Remove Obstacles
A low threshold or barrier-free shower is one of the most helpful elements of an accessible bathroom. It allows for easy entry and exit, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Improve Stability
Grab bars and handrails are also essential, providing support and stability where needed. Install them near the toilet, shower, and bath areas.
Increase Ease of Use
Accessible sinks and toilets are designed for comfortable use by everyone in the home without assistance from others. They should be at a height suitable for wheelchair users, and toilets should have enough space around them for easy maneuverability.
Minimize Slippery Surfaces
The floor in a bathroom should be slip-resistant to prevent accidents, while lighting should be bright and evenly distributed to reduce shadows and make it easier to navigate the space.
Legal Considerations and Permits
Building codes and regulations exist to ensure safe and accessible design. Familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure your remodel will be compliant. Better yet, hire a contractor to manage all those details for you. They can make sure that your modifications are performed correctly and safely and conform to all legal requirements.
Make Your Home More Accessible With Help From Havenside
At Havenside, our mission is to help homeowners age in place in their homes and communities. Aging in place comes with numerous benefits for your physical, emotional, and mental health, and we’re here to help you take advantage of those benefits.
Our team is always available to answer your questions about home modifications and guide you through making your living space more accessible. Whether you’re planning a full bathroom remodel or just making a few minor changes, we’re here to help make your home a safer, more comfortable place to live. Contact us today with your questions.
