Aging in Place Bathroom Design Ideas

What does "aging in place" mean?

"Aging in place" is defined by the CDC as 'the ability to live in one's own home and

Comfort height toilet we installed in Storrs CT

community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.' Other terms that come to mind when you think about getting older may be "accessible living," "elderly," or "handicap friendly." Now that we're living longer, there are more options than going into a nursing home. You don't HAVE to leave your home anymore. If you'd like to live out your life in the home you worked hard for all those years, you can! Some changes have to be made to make things easier but it's within your reach.

In this article, I'll discuss some "aging in place" bathroom design elements. These ideas are both practical and stylish.

Toilets

A 'comfort height' toilet is 2 inches taller than a standard toilet. It is also considered ADA-compliant which means the toilet measures 17-18 inches from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. That may not sound like a lot, but it does make it a lot easier to sit down and stand up unassisted. Kohler has several ADA-compliant toilets in colors such as Biscuit, Almond, Mexican Sand(TM) and Cashmere.

In order to maintain good health in the aging process, combinations of medications may be required. Although they keep us healthy, they may also come with undesirable side effects. A flush-assist, or pressure-assist, toilet is another "aging in place" design element to think about.

To maintain hygiene easier, a bidet should be installed. If a bidet installation is a little out of your budget, a bidet seat is an alternative. Each can be installed easily by a professional plumber and with little interruption to your daily routine.

Handheld shower wands

As mobility decreases, bathing becomes more difficult. A shower bench is helpful. A handheld removable shower wand makes hair washing and rinsing much easier. Be sure the shower wand is installed within reach. Using both the shower bench and shower wand creates a safe environment and protects your dignity. If there are times when you do need assistance, the removable shower wand is easy for a family member or caregiver to use as well.

Moen carries some beautiful AND functional models. Look for handheld shower wands that have texture or grips for ease of use like the one pictured below.

ADA Compliant Handheld Shower by Moen. Photo credit: Moen

Grab bars

Grab bars should be installed throughout an "aging in place" bathroom, such as near toilets and tubs, as well as inside showers. They will help you stand up and sit down, as well as make getting in and out of the shower safe. You often see cold, gray grab bars in public restrooms and hospitals. However, you can find different styles and colors that match your bathroom's design at your local hardware store. We suggest finding something that has a texture to make it easier to grasp when your hands are wet. Please contact a trusted local contractor to install the grab bars. He will make sure the walls are able to support the stress the grab bars will create so they can be used safely.

Your local bathroom remodel contractor

We have helped "aging in place" homeowners in Eastern CT for almost 30 years. We've installed hundreds of comfort height toilets, as well as safe bathing environments. We take the time to sit down with your family to discuss your needs and balance them with the design elements you want. We also offer different options depending on your budget! Our team of professional plumbers, electricians and carpentry technicians work together to install everything so you only have to make one call. Please call 860-228-1036 to schedule a service call.