As we get older, our homes need to adapt with us. This is especially true for the bathroom, which presents more safety risks as mobility decreases. Age-proofing your bathroom will allow you to comfortably and confidently use this space well into your golden years. Here are 11 tips to help you age-proof your bathroom.
Choose a Walk-in Shower or Tub with a Low Threshold
Stepping over a high tub wall can become difficult as mobility decreases. Replace your standard tub with a walk-in shower or a tub that has a low threshold or entryway. This allows you to easily walk in and out without tripping. Options like a curbless shower create a seamless entryway with no lip or edge to navigate.
For extra safety, install grab bars inside the shower or tub. Position them vertically and horizontally to assist with balance while stepping in and out. Non-slip mats or shower seats are other useful additions for stability and fall prevention.
Install Grab Bars by the Toilet and Sink
Grab bars are essential age-proofing accessories. Properly positioned grab bars allow you to safely transfer on and off the toilet and steady yourself when using the sink. For the toilet, place bars vertically on the wall behind and horizontally on the side wall. For the sink, put a bar on the close wall to grip when sitting or standing.
Opt for ADA-compliant steel grab bars that can hold up to 250-500 lbs of weight. Make sure they are properly anchored into studs, not just drywall. If you are taller or shorter than average, take measurements to position bars at the best height for you.
Improve Lighting
Good lighting is key for navigating the bathroom safely. As we age, we need up to 3 times more light for comfortable vision. Maximize natural light by removing window treatments. Supplement with energy efficient LED light bulbs in all fixtures and add more task lighting:
- Place lights on either side of the mirror to reduce shadows on the face.
- Install a light inside the shower.
- Have lighting around and above the toilet area.
- Use nightlights that automatically turn on in case you need to use the bathroom at night.
- Consider motion-activated lights that illuminate when you enter the space.
Declutter the Bathroom Floor
As we age, clutter becomes a tripping hazard that can cause falls. Maintain a clear path in and around the bathroom by:
- Storing all loose items in cabinets, shelves, or closets.
- Securing rugs and mats with non-slip backings.
- Removing low furniture like stools and magazine racks.
- Tucking plumbing pipes and electric cords out of the way.
- Using cordless phones and electrical appliances when possible.
- Hanging towels and robes on the back of the door.
Regularly declutter and tidy the bathroom floor to minimize trip risks. Have a friend or family member help if needed.
Use Non-Slip Surfaces
Slippery floors significantly increase falling risks. Install non-slip surfaces throughout the bathroom:
- Replace smooth tiles with textured ones or add adhesive slip-resistant strips.
- Use a standing frame mat, non-slip rug, or appliques in the shower.
- Install a textured non-slip bathroom mat near the tub and toilet.
- Apply non-skid tape on cabinet edges and bare floors.
- Ensure rugs and mats have non-slip rubber backing and are secured in place.
- Check existing surfaces for worn finish and re-coat as needed for traction.
Proper footwear like slippers with tread can also improve grip on floors when moving about.
Adjust Storage to Reach Items Easily
As mobility changes, storage spots may need adjusting.declutter the floors and avoid spills:
- Place frequently used items at mid-level heights.
- Install slide out shelves or Lazy Susans in corner cabinets.
- Use over-the-door clear organizers for toiletries and supplies.
- Opt for open storage like floating shelves and wall-mounted racks.
- Store cleaning products in easy-access locations but keep out of reach of children.
- Use a plastic floor cleaning caddy for transporting supplies.
Adjusting storage allows you to access items while maintaining your range of motion. Request help organizing if bending or reaching is difficult.
Improve Accessibility with Comfort Height Toilets
Traditional toilets require bending down low to use. This can strain the back and knees. Replace your toilet with a comfort height model which is 2-3 inches taller than standard options.
The increased height makes sitting down and standing up much easier. Options like one-piece toilets remove the bowl lip for a seamless, ergonomic design. Some models come with safety frames or railings for extra support too.
If purchasing a new toilet isn’t feasible, use a raised toilet seat adapter to increase the current seat height. There are armrest, bidet and self-wiping options to further increase accessibility.
Install Handrails on Both Sides of the Toilet
Proper handrail placement makes using the toilet much safer by giving you stability and support. Install grab bars on both sides of the toilet at an easily reachable height when seated. Place one bar on the close wall to grip with your outside hand when lowering down. Install the other on the side wall for your inside hand to hold for support.
If space allows, put in L-shaped rails around the toilet to assist from multiple angles. Make sure bars are made of sturdy metal, securely anchored, and able to support your weight. Handrails on both sides are key for assistance when using the toilet.
Use a Taller Toilet Seat and/or Safety Frame
For those that need more assistance, a taller toilet seat and/or safety frame improves toilet accessibility. Tall toilet seats add several inches for a chair-height seat, making sitting down and rising easier. Safety frames, often called toilet surrounds, provide sturdy grab bars on both sides to grip during transfers.
Look for toilet seat and safety frame combos that can be used together. Some units combine the tall seat and frame into one piece. Make sure the frame attaches securely to the toilet and fits your bathroom space constraints. These aids make using the toilet safer and less strenuous.
Add a Raised Toilet Seat with Arms
For those who need considerable assistance, a raised seat with arms offers helpful support on both sides. The armrests provide stability and leverage when sitting down and standing up from the toilet. The lifted seat reduces bending of knees and hips. Models with arms also keep you stabilized and upright.
Look for raised arm seats that are adjustable to fit your toilet and height needs. Sturdy seat construction will support up to 300 pounds. Padded seats and armrests provide comfort. Easy to clean materials and antimicrobial protection add convenience. A raised arm toilet seat significantly improves bathroom accessibility.
Install a Bidet for Personal Hygiene
As mobility decreases, it can be difficult to clean oneself after using the toilet. A bidet offers a hands-free way to stay fresh by spraying water for hygienic cleansing. Features like warm water, drying fans and adjustable pressures customize the experience.
Bidets can be purchased as seat attachments, integrated into toilet seats or as standalone units. Make sure to get an electrical outlet nearby for power. If purchasing a toilet seat bidet, check dimensions to ensure proper fit. With customizable settings, bidets allow independence and proper hygiene.
Equip Faucets and Showerheads with Extenders
Arthritic hands and limited mobility can make using faucets challenging. Extenders for the water handles and showerhead bring these features closer with less need to bend and strain. Look for sturdy clamp-on models that are fully adjustable for the perfect positioning.
Extenders come in varying lengths such as 6, 12 and 16 inches. For safety, wrap any excess hose away neatly. Only use smooth-finish hoses instead of coiled ones. With extenders installed, operating faucets and directing the shower spray becomes more comfortable.
Install a Higher Toilet Paper Holder
Traditional toilet paper holders require reaching down low, which can be difficult for those with limited mobility. Install a taller, extended toilet paper holder to bring the roll up closer for easier access.
Look for models that extend out 7 inches or more past the wall. Angle the holder slightly forward so the roll rests closer to the user. Position it at a comfortable height for you. Consider installing a shelf above the taller holder for storage as well. Reach for TP rolls with greater ease.
Conclusion
Age-proofing our bathrooms allows us to comfortably and confidently use this essential space as we get older. Implementing simple changes like installing grab bars and improving lighting can make a big difference in accessibility and safety. Investing in key upgrades like walk-in showers, taller toilets and adjustable accessories also helps maintain independence. With these tips, you can age-proof your bathroom for many years of easy use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Age-Proofing Your Bathroom
Here are some common questions people have about making their bathrooms more age-friendly:
How much does it cost to age-proof a bathroom?
The costs can vary greatly based on the size of your bathroom and what modifications you choose to make. Some simple DIY solutions like adding grab bars, railings, and lighting improvements can be done for a few hundred dollars. Larger upgrades like walk-in showers and new toilets can run $2,000 to $6,000 if hiring a contractor. Budget more for full bathroom remodels. Focus first on the most critical safety improvements within your price range.
What are the best flooring options for an age-proof bathroom?
Non-slip ceramic tile, slip-resistant vinyl, and textured porcelain tile make safe bathroom flooring choices. Avoid smooth surfaces like marble or granite as well as plush options like carpet that allow water to seep in. Install non-slip strips on existing tile if replacement isn’t possible. Also use non-slip mats in key areas prone to water exposure.
Should I get a walk-in shower or tub with a low entry?
For maximum safety, a curbless walk-in shower is ideal, as it eliminates any lip or edge to step over. If you don’t want to fully replace your tub, look for options with low thresholds (2 inches or less above the floor). This allows you to step in easily. Just make sure to always use non-slip bath mats. Walk-in showers reduce falling risks.
Where should grab bars be installed in the bathroom?
The key areas to install grab bars are around the toilet, in the tub/shower, and near the sink. Place vertically and horizontally positioned bars around the toilet for support sitting down or standing up. In the shower, use grab bars on each wall for stability and balance. Near the sink, a vertical bar on the wall provides stability leaning over.
How can I make my toilet more accessible?
A comfort height toilet, safety frame, raised seat with arms, and bidet adapt a standard toilet for easier accessibility. These options make sitting, standing and personal hygiene after using the bathroom less straining. Just make sure aids fit properly and are disinfected regularly. Consulting an occupational therapist can help determine the right solutions.
Age-proofing your bathroom helps ensure it remains a safe and accessible space to meet your needs as you get older. Focus on improvements that allow you to use the space more comfortably and reduce any fall risks. With some adaptive changes, your bathroom can support daily living well into your golden years.
