5 Aging-Friendly Bathroom Remodeling Ideas
If you’re looking forward to spending your retirement in the comfort of your own home, or if you’re caring for someone who’s well into their twilight years, keeping your home aging-friendly is an important consideration. Bathrooms, for instance, have slippery areas that can become more hazardous as you age: all the more reason to consider bathroom remodeling in the near future.
Here are some ideas for making your bathroom aging-friendly.
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Avoid grab bars – Unless you or your loved one has accessibility needs, you may want to avoid grab bars or shower rails. They make bathrooms feel institutional, and no amount of decor or lighting can offset these thick and obvious metal bars. But if you must have grab bars, consider ones that double as towel racks or fixtures.
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Optimize the lighting – Overhead lights and shiny surfaces are a recipe for glare, which can be a problem for light-sensitive eyes. Consider installing sconces, which project light upwards, instead of direct lighting. A row of clerestory windows can help increase natural lighting without sacrificing privacy.
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Wider spaces for easier access – Improve bathroom access by widening the doorway to as much as 36 inches. Replace the door handles with levers for easier, one-handed opening. Also consider a shower conversion with a wider, barrier-free shower area for improved accessibility.
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Keep things within reach – If you’re installing a handheld showerhead, choose a longer hose with a lower anchor. Consider buying a caddy for the toiletries so you can easily move them around as needed. A folding bathroom seat stored within reach can be helpful if you or a loved one is having difficulty standing up while bathing.
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Walk-in tubs – People with mobility problems find it difficult to get in and out of ordinary tubs. Plus, tubs can be very slippery. Consider replacing your existing tubs with walk in tubs to take advantage of its benefits. Our walk in tub feature benefits that include non-slippery areas, easier access, and less floor space, which can be reallocated for a wider berth or for widening your shower stall.
If you would like to know more ways to make your bathroom (and your home) aging-friendly, call Dreamstyle Remodeling today at (877) 721-1590 or fill out our contact form for a free in-home consultation with an experienced, friendly member of our team. We will be glad to assist homeowners in the Albuquerque and surrounding areas on their next bathroom improvement project.
