It is not necessary to sacrifice style in order to make a home more senior-friendly. When our loved ones get older, certain rooms in the house might become more difficult to maneuver, and the bathroom is typically the place that presents the greatest challenge. Nevertheless, with careful planning, modifications to bathrooms for elders can result in a space that is simultaneously functional, secure, and appealing from an aesthetic standpoint. The following are some suggestions for age-friendly modifications that can be made to a restroom.
1. Showers With No Steps
Because of their high sidewalls, traditional bathtubs provide a significant danger for people of advanced age. A safer alternative would be walk-in showers that have a low or nonexistent threshold. They allow for simple access and do away with the requirement of stepping over a raised tub edge. Choose a shower enclosure made of sleek, frameless glass if you want your bathroom to have a modern and open vibe.
2. Non-Slip Flooring
One of the most common reasons for falls in the bathroom is the presence of slippery surfaces. Tiles that are slip-resistant should have a rough surface and be constructed of materials such as vinyl, ceramic, or porcelain. Choose a colour scheme and pattern that harmonizes with the rest of the decor in order to preserve the integrity of your design style.
3. Grab Bars
Grab bars installed in strategic locations provide the essential assistance, particularly in the area around the toilet and within the shower. These safety measures are now available in such a broad variety of shapes and finishes that they can also function as fashionable accessories thanks to today’s market. For example, a grab bar finished in brushed nickel can be coordinated with other fixtures in the space to ensure that the style is consistent throughout.
4. Toilet with a Comfortable Seating Height
It is possible that using a comfort height toilet, which is a few inches taller than regular versions, will make sitting down and standing up on the toilet less difficult. Sleek, one-piece models with expanded bowls offer a contemporary aesthetic while still giving the additional comfort and accessibility that elders want.
5. A Shower Head That Can Be Adjusted
Bathing can be made less dangerous and more pleasant with the installation of a handheld shower head that features both an adjustable nozzle and a control knob. To guarantee that the décor of your bathroom stays consistent, pick a model that coordinates well with the rest of your accessories.
6. Sufficient Illumination
In a bathroom designed for seniors, adequate lighting is one of the most important features. Illuminate the area by layering different types of lighting, including ambient lighting for general illumination, job lighting near the mirror and vanity, and accent lighting for visual appeal. During late-night trips to the loo, motion-sensor night lights can offer an additional layer of protection.
7. Changes Made for the Sake of Vanity
Because a vanity that has a recessed base can accommodate a person while they are seated, it is an excellent option for elderly people who prefer to sit while they are grooming themselves. Choose a design aesthetic that complements the overall aesthetic of your space, whether that be contemporary, traditional, or something in between.
8. Shelving and drawers with a shallow depth
The convenience of having readily available access to bathroom necessities can be ensured by putting in shallow shelves and drawers. Choose open shelving to keep objects in plain sight and within easy reach, or choose for drawers with handles that are designed to be pulled easily for a tidier appearance.
9. Benches in the Shower
When taking a shower, a shower bench provides a place to sit that is both secure and comfortable. For a more relaxing and spa-like atmosphere, choose either a seat that is integrated into your shower enclosure or a sleek stool that is free-standing and made of teak.
10. Lever-Style Faucets
Faucets with lever handles are more user-friendly for elderly people than those with standard knob handles, particularly for those who suffer from arthritis. There is a wide selection of modern models to choose from, making it possible to maintain the aesthetic you have established for your bathroom.
11. Clear Pathways
Ensuring clear and unobstructed pathways is vital in a senior-friendly bathroom, especially if you are trying to make it wheelchair accessible. Keep floor space open and free of clutter to reduce tripping hazards. Consider using built-in or wall-mounted storage options to keep essentials close at hand while maintaining a clean and open floor area. Remember, simplicity is the key to design!
Bathroom modifications can provide a safer environment, improve operation, and still correspond with your preferred aesthetic, all without compromising. Keeping these suggestions in mind will allow you to design a bathroom that is not only suitable for people who intend to age in place but is also appealing to the eye. Because, in the end, a house that is designed to accommodate a person at every stage of life should have both a fashionable and secure interior.
