An accessible bathroom should have the necessary features to promote safety, independence and convenience for household members regardless of age and ability. Seniors with physical limitations, in particular, can benefit from its design. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood, a top choice when searching “bathroom remodeler near me“, takes a look at the eight key elements of a senior-friendly bathroom.
1. Flooring
The flooring of a senior-friendly bathroom should provide considerable underfoot traction to minimize slips and falls. Adding rugs with non-skid backing on specific locations can help prevent such accidents when moving from a wet area to a dry one.
2. Grab Bars
Grab bars near the tub, toilet, and in hallways outside bathrooms are key elements to accommodate senior homeowners. Proper placement of these features, which takes into consideration spacing and height, allows for more support when navigating around the space, be it to get into the bathtub or move around frequently used areas.
3. Toilet
A toilet with a higher seat will make trips to the bathroom more difficult, thus increasing the possibility of falls. Seats that are at least 17 inches high from the floor should be considered when designing a senior-friendly bathroom, as this height is ideal for individuals with limited mobility in their lower extremities.
4. Bathtub and Shower Features
Several safety features found in bathtubs and showers are worth including in your accessible remodeling plan to enhance the bathing experience of seniors. These include a wide ledge around the tub, so it may be used as an area to rest while sitting in upright positions. Additionally, non-slip strips lining the bottom of shower stalls help reduce slipping when not using grab bars on slick surfaces such as ceramic tiles.
5. Vanity
A vanity with a deep base cabinet is highly recommended since a shallow storage space can cause difficulty when bending over to reach lower sections. Additionally, countertops and sink fixtures made of materials known for their superb water resistance like quartz or any similar surface will also reduce the need for extensive maintenance.
6. Lighting
Illuminating the bathroom with entrance and overhead lighting is essential for seniors who may be using the bathroom at night. This can be accomplished by using efficient LED light fixtures and motion-activated lighting.
7. Lever-Style Handles and Faucet Controls
Lever-style handles and faucet controls provide ease of access to drawers and the ability to turn on hot or cold water. Installing ADA-compliant fixtures will ensure ease of use over time and help with getting freedoms back.
8. Wheelchair-Accessible Shower
In addition to its streamlined look and feel, a walk-in shower offers a level of comfort and utility that senior loved ones with mobility issues can appreciate. It has no curb to step over to get in, and only has a glass partition on one side to keep water from splashing into the other areas of the bathroom. Sizing a walk-in shower may vary depending on the available floor space, though taking up a bigger floor area is required to accommodate a wheelchair user.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Creating an accessible bathroom requires careful consideration to ensure the seniors’ safety, convenience, and comfort are taken into account. At DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood, our team of experienced design professionals create safe and independent living environments while fulfilling your individual needs — all with top-quality products and professionals you can trust.
To get a bathroom quote or schedule a conversation about your desired design for your bathroom, call (305) 925-5999 or fill out our convenient online form. We serve homeowners in Hollywood, Hallandale Beach, Aventura, Golden Beach, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Dania Beach, Davie, and North Miami Beach.
