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A house is more than just a building; it is a home. Most retirees would rather age in their own homes, but sometimes this is not possible due to lack of accommodations. Let’s take the bathroom for example. For many, it is too easy for someone to slip and fall in the shower. A bathtub may be too difficult to climb in and out of which also increases the risk of falling. Sinks, toilets, and more are typically not wheelchair accessible. Bottom cabinets can be too hard to bend over to look under. A bathroom can be a recipe for disaster, but so are other parts of the house. It is never too late to make your home safe for aging in place, however.

If you want to remodel your home to allow you to ‘age in place’ without fear of any accidents or inconveniences, the first thing you should look at is your bathtub or shower. Showering is the hotbed of accidents and is the best place to make safe again. The most important installation to make initially is adding slip-free bases for the bottom of the tub and or shower, this reduces slip risk.

Try installing a stand-up shower with a slip free base. If it is small, its best that you have it made bigger. This will leave you access to add a seat or allow you to bring in a walker or other equipment you have or may need. A grab bar is also a great idea to prevent falling.

Another safe idea would be to install curbless showers. They do not have the lift at the base, so you will not have to step over it. Curbless showers will also help when maneuvering walkers around the shower area. This also prevents chances to trip! Consider it if you have a hard time entering your shower.

If you enjoy your relaxing nightly bath, then there are also walk-in tubs available for installation. While it does cost more than other tubs and showers, it is worth it for risk-free, peaceful bathing.

Another problem retirees face every day in their bathrooms involve the toilets. Toilets are places low to the floor which makes it difficult for elders to get up and sit down. Installing a new toilet that is between 17 and 19 inches in height may be a better option.

There are also ways for bathroom sinks to be adjusted to accommodate you. A wall-mounted sink will leave space beneath it which will be extremely helpful for seating and wheelchair use. Split-level countertops can be one of the best decisions you make. Lower countertops are better for people who are seated or in a wheelchair, while high tops are best when standing up.

If you want to be sure your bathroom is ready for you, you may want to look into these options. Widening doorways will make it easier to get through them if you have large equipment. Grab bars are for more than showers, putting them by toilets will help you get up and also you can hang your towels on it if you wish. Installing drawers rather than cabinets reduce the need to get down rummaging through for the items you need from beneath them.

Remember, you have worked hard your entire life; you deserve to retire gracefully in the home you had put so much love and care into. For many, it’s possible to continue to live where you want as long as you keep your safety in mind and add these helpful features.

If you are interested in bathroom remodeling so that you can safely age in place, give ImproveRite a call today, our remodeling contractors have a great deal of experience with all types of bathroom remodels.