If you're adapting a bathroom for an elderly friend or relative, where do you begin? We take you through your options.
As we age, our mobility and ability to perform daily tasks can decrease, making the bathroom a potentially hazardous place. Fortunately, there are several bathroom adaptations that can be made to improve safety and accessibility for the elderly. In this article, we'll explore some of the main bathroom adaptations for the elderly.
Walk-in baths
Walk-in baths are a great option for the elderly or those with limited mobility who find it difficult to step over the edge of a traditional bathtub. Walk-in baths have a door that opens inward, allowing the bather to step inside and sit comfortably while filling the bath with water. Many walk-in baths also come with additional features such as grab bars and non-slip surfaces to further enhance safety.
Shower seats
For those who prefer to shower rather than bathe, a shower seat can provide a comfortable and safe option. Shower seats can be easily installed and come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit the needs of the user. Many shower seats also have adjustable heights and non-slip surfaces for added safety.
Grab bars
Grab bars are an essential addition to any bathroom, especially for the elderly or those with limited mobility. They provide a sturdy support when getting in and out of the bath or shower, and can also be useful when using the toilet. Grab bars come in a variety of styles and sizes and can be installed easily in most bathrooms.
Non-slip flooring
Slips and falls are a common hazard in the bathroom, but they can be prevented by installing non-slip flooring. Non-slip bathroom flooring comes in a variety of materials, such as tiles, vinyl and laminate, and can often be installed over existing flooring. It provides a secure grip even when wet, reducing the risk of falls.
Conclusion
The bathroom can be a dangerous place for the elderly or those with limited mobility, but there are several adaptations that can be made to improve safety and accessibility. Walk-in baths, shower seats, grab bars and non-slip flooring are all great options for making the bathroom a safer and more comfortable space. By making these adaptations, you can help ensure that your loved ones can continue to live independently and safely in their own homes.
Shop Independent Living
Whatever adaptations you need to make, at Victoria Plum you'll find a huge range of accessible bathroom products at competitive prices. From grab bars to shower seats, and from non-slip flooring to walk-in baths, discover the perfect "Independent Living" solution for your bathroom project. Simply click below to begin browsing.
Accessible bathroom ideas and advice
If you feel an accessible bathroom can't be both functional and stylish, we're here to make you think again! For further inspiration, check out all our Independent Living blog posts and articles. You'll discover all our latest accessible bathroom ideas, including how to create a beautiful bathroom for an elderly relative and how to adapt a bathroom for elderly or disabled guests.
If you're searching for advice on more specific topics, read our guides to bathrooms for visually-impaired users and bathrooms for wheelchair users. We even offer bathroom advice for those with arthritis sufferers and other conditions.
Head to our Independent Living hub for more ideas and advice by clicking on the image below.
