A bathroom is meant to be a relaxing space where daily tasks can be done effectively. But, for the elderly, it could cause anxiety as tasks that were once simple might now be difficult.
Indeed, to seniors, the bathroom could well be a dangerous place. It might be necessary to upgrade or renovate their bathrooms to help them feel safer and regain a sense of normalcy in carrying out their everyday tasks.
Here are some improvements you could make to your bathroom to give you and your senior family member peace of mind.
1. Non-slip mats
Wet floors are the biggest hazard in any bathroom, but they are especially dangerous to seniors who find it hard to keep their footing.
Non-slip mats are, therefore, essential, allowing them to comfortably and confidently navigate without the risk of falling. This solution is affordable and requires no installation.
Place non-slip mats in areas where water gets on the floor most, such as around the shower, toilet and sink. If you have a shower stall or screen, place one mat in the shower area and another right outside it to further minimise the risk of falling.
2. Grip handles/handrails
Grip handles are another affordable option to help seniors steady themselves while they get around. These require some professional installation as they have to be screwed into the walls or floors.
Install grip handles or handrails in places where it would be hard for seniors to navigate without support; for example, in the shower area to help them retain balance while going in and out, and by the toilet, so they can sit without losing their balance.
3. Bathroom organisers
Clutter on the counter or in the shower/bathtub area is hazardous. Keeping everything simple and organised means old folks don’t have to hunt around, or unnecessarily bend over or reach for things.
Keep the essentials as easy to reach as possible. Store items such as body washes and shampoos at eye level, and face wash, toothbrushes and toothpaste by the sink in a sturdy organiser.
Caddies in the shower can help with storage, but if the area feels too cluttered, try dispensers instead. Refill these easily with your senior’s favourite soaps, shampoos and conditioners. Make sure to mount it on the wall where it’s accessible.
4. Senior-friendly taps
For those who have lost their strength and grip, tasks that were once easy to do would be much more difficult, such as turning on a tap. This is especially the case for those with arthritis.
Change out your sink and shower faucets for lever faucets, which operate simply by pushing them up or down. These are much easier for the elderly to use and could make a significant difference in their everyday lives.
5. Shower screens
Shower screens limit wet floors to one area of the bathroom where the shower is located. They are a safer option than shower curtains, which can get tangled and block out necessary light.
Go for a plastic, or tempered- or reinforced-glass screen that will not shatter if your senior were to fall against it. Screens also provide some stability for when they enter and exit the shower.
6. Extra lighting
Senior bathrooms need as much light as possible, without being blinding, to help them see and navigate their way. Poor lighting, especially at night, is a major contributor to falls, so consider installing motion-sensor lights to make it easier for them.
More than one light source is preferable in a bathroom – by the sink, toilet, and in the shower.
7. Changing doors
In case a fall does occur, the door could be the biggest obstruction to getting into the bathroom. It would be even more difficult if a senior falls against the door and is unable to get back up.
A simple solution is to have the door open outwards instead of into the bathroom, which can be done by rehanging it. You might need to hire a handyman to get this done.
Now that you know how to improve upon a senior’s bathroom, here are some tips on renovations.
1. Textured tiles
Go with textured tiles instead of smooth and polished ones for the floor, as these provide the necessary grip to help seniors keep steady when walking. Consider stone, mosaic, limestone, or granite, which provide durable flooring even when wet.
2. New toilet
If your home still has a squat toilet, consider replacing it with a seated one. Squat toilets are dangerous for old folks as bending down could cause them to lose their balance.
A seated toilet, especially with the abovementioned handrails, would be the best and safest option for them.
3. Alcoves
A great way to declutter the shower area is to build an alcove – that is, a space in the wall for storage – but keep accessibility in mind. Make sure it is at a reachable height and is capable of holding everyday toiletries, with space for more if necessary.
This article originally appeared on Recommend.my – Malaysia’s #1 Home Improvement Services Platform. Recommend.my offers a safer and more convenient way to hire the best home improvement and home maintenance professionals. From flooring to interior design to air-conditioner servicing, get access to thousands of the best local contractors and professionals at your fingertips.