How to Design a Bathroom for the Elderly

Some people measure the stages of their lives by their bathrooms. Kids' stepstools give way to sanctuaries dominated by teens. Once the kids are gone, parents can enjoy long-term dreams that reward years of hard work with a sophisticated design filled with luxurious appointments. Ultimately, one more decorating stage marking the passage of time will claim your attention: a bathroom designed to accommodate seniors with complex needs. If you---or your parents--are approaching this stage of life, it may be time to revamp this important room so it offers the maximum amount of comfort and security to those who need it most.

Things You'll Need

• Prefabricated walk-in tub
• Wall-mount sink
• Elevated toilet seat
• Slip-proof flooring
• Multiple handrails/grab bars
• Hooks
• Telephone line (optional)

Instructions

1. Hire an experienced contractor who understands the needs of the elderly and the limitations they face. Discuss the following ideas when you agree upon your master plan and strategies: wide entryways (from 32 to 36 inches wide for wheelchair access), bright lighting, support bars and hand rails, an elevated toilet, walk-in bath/shower and other safety and comfort amenities.

2. Shop for the best walk-in shower/bath you can find. Companies like Premier Bath (see link below) design prefabricated units with low thresholds (a few inches) so seniors can enjoy a safe enclosure while they take a bath or a shower. Install handrails and large hooks adjacent to the tub unit so towels, robes and other necessities are within reach. Add safety strips to the bottom of the unit as an added safety measure.

3. Install an elevated vanity/sink area that positions the sink height between 30 and 34 inches so that a wheelchair-bound person is able to use the area independently. Consider a wall-mount sink and install automatic faucets and automatic soap dispensers. Build vanity drawers on either side of the sink at heights that allow for easy access to toiletries and supplies from either a seated or standing position.

4. Consult flooring experts to get recommendations for slip-proof options, but if there's no leeway in the budget to replace an existing floor, hire a contractor to add a slip-proof coating over the existing tile so the surface helps guard against falls. Steer clear of fluffy bath mats that can tangle up in wheelchairs and cause accidents for those using walkers. Complement the slip-proof floor finish with additional handrails.

5. Meet the unique toilet access needs of seniors by installing an elevated commode that exceeds the standard 18-inch toilet height found in most bathrooms. Either build a base on which the toilet can be mounted to add height or purchase a seat-top unit that does the job. Ask about toilets that attach to the wall to make the installation less complicated, and mount additional grab bars adjacent to the toilet seat.

6. Include extras as your budget allows, including a phone line if the senior has issues with cell phone use and a water temperature tester. Hang mirrors horizontally rather than vertically. Move light switches down the wall and make certain there is at least one electrical outlet that's easy to reach for seniors who wish to shave or style their hair without the assistance of a caregiver.

References

• Premier Baths
• Walk-in Bathtubs
• The Care Guide: Building an Accessible Bathroom