As we age, our homes may no longer meet our needs in terms of accessibility, safety, and comfort. This is particularly true for the bathroom, which can pose many challenges for seniors or those with mobility issues. However, with the right modifications, a bathroom remodel can help seniors age in place and maintain their independence. In this article, we will explore how a bathroom remodel can accommodate your needs as you age, from installing grab bars and non-slip flooring to adjusting the height of fixtures and widening doorways.
We will also share some design ideas for creating a beautiful and functional bathroom that meets your specific needs and preferences. So, whether you’re planning for the future or looking to make changes now, read on to discover how a bathroom remodel can help you age in place and maintain your quality of life.
Benefits Of Bathroom Remodeling For Aging In Place
1. Increase Safety And Accessibility For Seniors
A strategic bathroom remodel can be a game-changer for seniors who want to age in place. A remodeled bathroom can increase safety and accessibility, making daily routines easier and more comfortable. For example, installing grab bars near the toilet and shower can help prevent falls, which are a leading cause of injury among older adults. A walk-in bathtub or shower with a low threshold can make bathing safer and more accessible for those with mobility issues.
In addition to these safety features, a strategic bathroom remodel can also improve the functionality of the space. Installing a taller toilet or sink can make it easier for seniors to use without bending over too much. Adding extra lighting or motion-activated lights can help seniors navigate the space safely at night. These small changes can have a big impact on the overall safety and comfort of aging in place.
2. Improve Functionality And Convenience Of Daily Routines
A remodeled bathroom is not only safer but also more convenient for seniors. For example, installing a handheld showerhead allows seniors to easily wash their hair while seated on a shower bench or chair. Adding shelves or storage units near the sink or shower allows seniors to keep toiletries within reach without having to bend down or stretch too far.
Another way that bathroom remodeling improves convenience is by creating more space in the room itself. This is especially important if someone uses mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs. Widening doorways, removing unnecessary walls, and rearranging fixtures can all create more space for maneuvering around the room.
3. Add Value To Your Home
Bathroom remodeling is not just beneficial for aging in place; it also adds value to your home. A remodeled bathroom is one of the top features that potential buyers look for when searching for a new home. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report, homeowners who invest in mid-range bathroom remodels recoup an average of 67.2% of their investment when they sell their home.
But it’s not just about recouping your investment when you sell your home. A remodeled bathroom can also make your home more attractive to potential renters if you decide to rent out a room or your entire home in the future.
4. Incorporate Modern Technology And Energy-Efficient Features
Finally, bathroom remodeling provides an opportunity to incorporate modern technology and energy-efficient features into your home. For example, installing a smart toilet with automatic flushing and seat warming can improve comfort and convenience. Adding low-flow faucets or showerheads can reduce water usage and save money on utility bills.
Other energy-efficient features that can be incorporated into a bathroom remodel include LED lighting, programmable thermostats for heated floors, and high-efficiency ventilation fans. These features not only improve the functionality of the space but also help reduce environmental impact.
Choosing Details Fixtures And Flooring/Walls For An Accessible Bathroom
1. Slip-Resistant Flooring For Easy Access And Safety
Choosing the right flooring is crucial. Slippery floors can be a major hazard, especially for those with mobility issues or who use wheelchairs. To ensure easy access and safety, consider slip-resistant flooring options such as vinyl or larger tiles. These materials offer better traction than traditional tile and are easier to clean and maintain.
In addition to choosing slip-resistant flooring, it’s also important to minimize grout lines in the bathroom floor. Large tiles or vinyl sheets are ideal choices since they have fewer seams than smaller tiles. Fewer grout lines mean less chance of dirt buildup or tripping hazards.
2. Designing An Accessible Bathroom Layout
The layout of an accessible bathroom should allow for easy movement and maneuverability for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids. When designing your bathroom layout, make sure there is enough space between fixtures to accommodate a wheelchair comfortably.
Consider installing a roll-in shower with no threshold so that users can easily enter without having to step over anything. This type of shower design allows for seamless entry and exit, making it perfect for those with limited mobility.
3. Choosing Fixtures That Are Easy To Reach
Accessibility in the bathroom extends beyond just the floor plan and flooring choice; it also includes selecting fixtures that are easy to reach and operate. Lever-style handles on faucets are much easier to use than traditional knobs, especially for those with arthritis or other hand disabilities.
Grab bars near the toilet and shower provide additional support when moving around the bathroom. They should be securely anchored into wall studs so that they can support weight if necessary.
4. Walls That Work Well In Accessible Bathrooms
The walls in an accessible bathroom should be durable enough to withstand daily wear-and-tear while still being easy to clean. Choose waterproof materials such as ceramic tile or fiberglass panels that won’t warp or deteriorate over time due to moisture.
In addition to durability, consider adding contrast to the walls. This can help those with visual impairments distinguish between different surfaces and fixtures in the bathroom. For example, a contrasting color on the wall behind the toilet can make it easier to locate.
Functional Fixtures And Accessories For An ADA-Compliant Bathroom
Accessible bathrooms are designed to cater to the needs of people with disabilities or mobility issues. The fixtures and accessories in such a bathroom must be easy to reach, use, and maneuver. In this section, we will discuss some functional fixtures and accessories that can make your current bathroom ADA-compliant.
1. Faucets With Lever Handles
Faucets with lever handles are perfect for people who have difficulty grasping or turning knobs. These faucets require minimal effort to operate, making them ideal for individuals with limited hand function. Touchless faucets that operate using motion sensors can be installed to eliminate the need for physical contact altogether.
2. Grab Bars
Grab bars provide support and stability when moving around the bathroom. They should be installed near the toilet, shower stall, bathtub, and sink areas. Grab bars come in different shapes, sizes, and finishes to match your bathroom decor. When installing grab bars in your bathroom, it is important to ensure they are securely mounted into wall studs or backing material.
3. Shower Seat
A shower seat is a practical addition to any handicap shower as it provides a comfortable place to sit while bathing. It also reduces the risk of falls by eliminating the need for standing during a shower. Shower seats come in various styles such as foldable or fixed models that can be attached directly onto the wall.
4. Curbless Shower Stall
A curbless shower stall eliminates the need for a step or threshold between the bathroom floor and shower area. This feature makes it easier for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility to access the shower without tripping over a raised edge.
5. Raised Toilet Seat
Toilets in an ADA-compliant bathroom must have a raised toilet seat of at least 17 inches high from floor level. This height makes it easier for individuals who use wheelchairs or have difficulty sitting down on low toilets due to knee problems or arthritis. Grab bars should also be installed near the toilet to provide support when sitting down or standing up.
6. Bidet
A bidet is a useful accessory for an accessible bathroom as it promotes better hygiene and reduces the need for wiping. It can be especially helpful for individuals who have difficulty reaching or bending over to clean themselves after using the toilet.
7. Shower Curtain
The shower curtain in an ADA-compliant bathroom should be easy to open and close without obstructing movement in the bathroom. A curved shower rod can be installed to create more space inside the shower area while preventing water from splashing onto the floor.
Creating A Functional Home With The Right Fixtures And Accessories
Designing a bathroom that accommodates the needs of people of all ages and abilities is an important consideration when planning a remodel. By applying universal design principles, you can create a functional space that is accessible and safe for everyone. In this section, we’ll discuss some key factors to consider when creating a functional home with the right fixtures and accessories.
1. Placement Of Fixtures And Accessories
When planning your bathroom remodel, it’s important to think about the placement of fixtures and accessories. This includes everything from the sink and toilet to towel bars and grab bars. The goal is to ensure there is enough room for maneuvering and accessibility, especially if someone in your household has limited mobility.
For example, installing a wall-mounted sink instead of a pedestal sink can create more space underneath for wheelchair users. Similarly, placing grab bars near the toilet or shower can provide added support for those who need it. When choosing fixtures and accessories, look for products that meet universal design standards.
2. Open Space And Light
Open space and light are essential elements of a functional bathroom. Removing unnecessary walls or curtains can create more open space, making it easier to move around. Adding more lights can also improve visibility, which is especially important for older adults who may have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.
If you’re working with a small bathroom, consider using mirrors to create the illusion of more space. Mirrors reflect light, making the room feel brighter and larger than it actually is.
3. Simple Modifications
Simple modifications like adding rugs or grab bars can make a big difference in creating a safe and accessible bathroom for aging in place. Rugs provide added traction on slippery surfaces like tile floors while grab bars offer support when getting in or out of the shower or tub.
When choosing rugs or mats for your bathroom floor, look for products with non-slip backing to prevent slips and falls. For grab bars, choose models that are sturdy enough to support weight but also blend in with the rest of your bathroom decor.
4. DIY Projects
DIY projects can be a cost-effective way to update your bathroom, but it’s important to do your research before starting any work. This includes researching design tech and products that meet universal design standards. You should also consider consulting with a professional contractor or designer who has experience working with aging-in-place bathroom remodels.
Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment before starting any DIY project. This includes safety gear like gloves and goggles as well as power tools like drills and saws.
Conclusion: Aging In Place And Bathroom Remodeling For A Safe And Comfortable Home
In conclusion, safety is paramount you can prevent falls and minimize risks associated with mobility issues. A tub that is easy to get in and out of, functional fixtures, and accessories that cater to your needs can make all the difference.
When planning your bathroom remodel, consider comfort as well as ease of use. You want a space that not only meets your care requirements but also feels like home. By incorporating elements that promote relaxation and tranquility, you can create a functional yet inviting space.
It’s important to remember that even if you’re not experiencing mobility issues now, they may arise at a later date. By taking proactive steps to reduce fall risk in the bathroom through remodeling, you’ll be prepared for any potential future challenges.
Sources:
/walk-in-tubs/shower-combination/
Do You Need A Professional Bathroom Remodeling Team You Can Trust?
Are you ready to transform your bathroom into a luxurious and functional space? Look no further than Built Right Construction & Design – the top-rated bathroom remodeler serving Contra Costa County and beyond. Our experienced team understands that remodeling can be a daunting experience, but we’re here to make it stress-free for you. From the initial consultation to the final walk-through, we’re with you every step of the way, answering your questions and addressing your concerns.
At Built Right Construction & Design, we take pride in delivering the best experience possible. Our licensed general contracting company offers a wide range of services, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, home remodels, additions, emergency plumbing, mold and dry rot repairs, water and fire damage repairs, and even assistance with filing insurance claims. We also offer roof tarping, leak repair, and replacement services.
Our team is committed to completing your project on time and within your budget, without compromising on quality. We understand that your home is your sanctuary, and we’re passionate about delivering a finished product that you can be proud of. So, what are you waiting for? Contact Built Right Construction & Design today and let us help you bring your dream bathroom to life.
