The challenges of ageing are varied and unique to an individual, but some aspects of getting older will affect most people. 

Changes to balance, coordination, memory, agility, vision and hearing loss and loss of strength are all on the list. A decline in any of them can impact a person’s confidence and ability to use the bathroom independently. 

Thankfully, there are several bathroom renovations for the elderly that can make using the facilities safer and more comfortable.

The Importance Of Bathroom Renovations For The Elderly

Elderly people often prefer to remain living at home rather than move to a care facility or other premises. For many individuals, staying put provides a better environment for their mental and emotional well-being. Being at home provides comfort and familiarity and can even help with physical recovery from accidents or incidents. 

That being said, your typical bathroom is one area of the home that can be highly unsafe for older people. That’s where bathroom renovations for the elderly come in. 

Making smart changes to the bathroom can significantly improve seniors’ safety, comfort, and independence, allowing them to age  with dignity and confidence, removing the need to move home.

Bathing Solutions For the Elderly

Wondering what options there are when it comes to bathing and personal care? Let’s take a look at the most common adaptations.

Level Access Showers

The tray of a standard shower poses a significant trip hazard for elderly people. Walk-in, level access showers with no threshold are ideal for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility issues. 

Walk-In Baths

Walk-in baths remove the trip hazard of a bath edge and the discomfort of navigating one. They feature a low threshold, a sealing door and a built-in seat to make bathing safe and simple. Grab bars and hydrotherapy features are additional elements that can be built in to provide extra comfort and support. 

Bath Lifts

A bath lift might be the answer when a traditional bath is preferred.

A bath lift is a device that supports people with limited mobility to get in and out of a bathtub safely. The lift is powered by a motor, either battery-operated or connected to a power source, that controls the movement of the seat. See how bath lifts and level access showers compare in this blog.

Shower Seat

Shower seats provide comfort and safety, especially for those with limited stamina or balance. They can be moved out of the way or folded between uses in homes with multiple people.

Toilet Solutions

Here, we look at three bathroom renovations for the elderly that focus on the WC itself.

Raised Height Toilets Or Toilet Seats

Taller toilets make sitting and standing easier, putting less strain on the muscles and reducing discomfort. You can replace the whole toilet with a raised height alternative, or purchase and install a taller toilet seat for a faster, more affordable option.

Grab Rails

Strategically placed grab rails around the bathroom can provide support and stability. They are typically fitted next to the toilet, sink, and shower or bathing area.

Washer Dryer Toilets

Elderly people who struggle with mobility can benefit from a washer-dryer toilet. Ergonomically designed, this toilet removes the need for bending and reaching. The clever toilets make toileting safer, less stressful and more comfortable for users. 

Once activated, these toilets run through gentle wash and dry sequences that ensure cleanliness and comfort without the need for toilet paper. 

Flooring and Lighting

Bathroom renovations for the elderly include what’s under your feet and above your head.

Non-Slip Flooring

Non-slip tiles or textured flooring is important for the bathroom because it significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls. Remember to remove other trip hazards such as laundry baskets, steps and stools that aren’t tucked away and towels that have been left on the floor.

Lighting

Bright, well-placed lighting helps ageing eyes navigate the bathroom safely. Overhead lighting can be combined with spotlights and even LED strip lighting to highlight landmark facilities such as the toilet, shower, and sink areas. 

Essential Accessories For A Safer Bathroom

Last but not least, let’s run through the smaller changes that can still make a big difference when considering bathroom renovations for the elderly. 

Alternative Taps

Lever taps are easier to operate than traditional cross-head style taps for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. Motion sensor taps are a further option that offers the utmost convenience.

Anti-Scald Devices

Anti-scald devices prevent burns from hot water. Anti-scald taps are available, or a valve can be fitted to the existing water supply pipes. Anti-scald valves mix cold water with the outgoing hot water to ensure the water coming out of the tap is at a safe temperature. 

Storage Solutions

Easy-to-reach storage for toiletries and towels is helpful in the bathrooms of ageing users because it removes the need for awkward bending and reaching. Open shelves are a simple storage solution and look attractive, too. 

Adjustable Shower Heads

Handheld showerheads offer elderly users limited mobility, flexibility and convenience when it comes to washing.

Accessible Bathrooms Are Achievable

One of the most important aspects of a safe and comfortable home for the elderly is an accessible bathroom. There are many ways to improve the space to accommodate common age-related concerns.

Planning a bathroom renovation project? Get in touch today to speak to our friendly team and find out how we can support you.