Remodeling Your Bathroom for Accessibility

When you love the home you live in, remodeling your bathroom for accessibility becomes a must for long-term comfort and safety. This is especially true as we face physical changes that come with aging gracefully at home. With a few smart modifications, you can transform your bathroom into a space that meets a variety of accessibility needs.

Let’s dive into some impactful changes that can make your bathroom a haven of safety and comfort.

Wider Doorway Access

Many bathroom doorways are not wide enough for wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices to pass through easily. Making doorways wider than the standard size, sometimes referenced as a universal design, accommodates accessibility for everyone. A wider doorway elevates the issues of having to transfer out of a wheelchair or turn a walker sideways to fit through the bathroom door.

Grab Bars and Handrails

Installing grab bars and handrails is a simple, effective way to enhance bathroom safety. Place them near the shower, bathtub, and toilet at an easy-to-reach height. Professional and correct installation ensures they are securely attached to wall studs and the materials are relevant for the bathroom. Rust-resistant and easy-to-grip materials like stainless steel or coated metals to avoid slippery finishes.

Non-Slip Flooring Solutions

Wet bathroom floors frequently cause falls, but non-slip flooring can significantly lower this risk. Using quality non-slip materials or replacing smooth tiles with textured are great options for better traction. Alternatively, anti-slip treatments can be applied to existing tiles to enhance grip without changing the bathroom’s look.

Walk-In Showers and Bathtubs

Traditional bathtubs can be difficult for those with mobility issues. Walk-in showers and bathtubs provide safer, more convenient alternatives. Barrier-free curbless walk-in showers eliminate the need to step over a high tub edge, while walk-in bathtubs feature doors that allow easy access. Adding a shower seat further reduces the risk of slipping by providing a comfortable place to sit.

Adjustable Shower Heads

An adjustable shower head brings flexibility allowing you to direct water flow where it’s needed without straining. Handheld shower heads can be mounted at various heights and detached for maximum control. Slide bar systems adjust the height of the shower head, accommodating different users and seated use. For convenience, choosing shower heads with easy-to-turn controls like lever handles, are ideal for those with arthritis or strength limitations.

Improving Lighting and Visibility

Proper lighting is essential for safety, especially for those with impaired vision. Ensure your bathroom is well-lit with bright, even lighting, such as energy-efficient LED lights. Install motion-sensor night lights for automatic illumination during nighttime visits. Use contrasting colors for fixtures and walls to help visually impaired individuals identify key features more easily.

Smart Bathroom Technology

Smart technology can enhance your bathroom’s safety and convenience. For example, smart faucets use touch or motion activation, which is perfect for those with arthritis. Voice-activated assistants like Amazon Echo or Google Home can control lighting and music. High-tech toilets with automatic flushing and bidet functions improve hygiene and ease of use.

Creating Accessible Storage

Accessible storage solutions keep essential items within easy reach, reducing the need for bending or stretching. Install shelving at reachable heights and avoid placing frequently used items in high cabinets. Additionally, open shelves with baskets can be used to keep everyday items visible and accessible.
Creating a safe and comfortable bathroom is more than just a project—it’s an investment in your well-being and peace of mind. At Dez-Dal, we specialize in remodeling your bathroom for accessibility with personalized recommendations in your consultation. Take the first step today and enjoy the benefits of a thoughtfully designed space tailored to your needs.

Contact us at (928) 274-4445 to schedule your consultation, or use our online form.