As we age, it can be frustrating to struggle with common, personal tasks that once seemed simple. It can also feel embarrassing to ask for help with tasks like showering, bathing, and using the toilet. Bathroom accessibility products make it possible to live independently and maintain your privacy while staying safe in your home. We’ve pulled together a list of the best bathroom safety aids to choose from as you research options to fit your lifestyle.
Safety Handrails
Making your bathroom safer doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated – but it can help you maintain your independence, dignity, and privacy. If you struggle with balance or muscular weakness, something as simple as installing safety rails can improve your bathroom accessibility.
Safety rails are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your needs, and they are easily adjustable to fit your space. Whether you need assistance supporting yourself in the shower or beside the sink or toilet, safety rails can give confidence to safely take on life’s daily necessities independently.
Roll-Under Sinks
If you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter in your home, bathroom accessibility can be challenging, especially when using the sink. Roll-under sinks are convenient bathroom accessibility products that provide open space below your sink so you can roll under to wash your hands or face with ease. With the extra access they provide, you’ll be able to reach the faucet, soap, and towels with no issue. And, they help prevent back strain over the years.
Toilet Seat Risers
Whether you struggle to transition from sitting to standing or simply want to protect your joints as you get older, a toilet seat riser can work wonders. This bathroom safety aid allows a seamless transition to and from the toilet without added stress on your core, hips, and knees. Not only does this protect your joints, but it also helps with balance and preventing falls.
Many risers include detachable arms for comfort and support. There are even toilet seat risers available that include a bidet!
Handheld Showers
Handheld shower heads are a popular bathroom accessibility product for older adults. They connect to your existing shower head, but have a long hose so you can maneuver them easily around your body. They are easy to install and rarely require a professional, making them a super simple way to up the accessibility of your bathroom.
Handheld showers can help those who struggle with balance, mobility, and flexibility. And, they can be used seated or standing whether you prefer a bath or shower. This affordable solution is a great option to explore when it comes to bathroom safety aids.
Shower Chairs
Falling is a concern for many people (and their loved ones) because it can lead to permanent or worsened disability or even death. Shower chairs are an affordable option to provide stability and privacy in the shower and while preventing falls.
At Mobility City, we offer a variety of shower chair options, including ones with arms and a back to provide extra comfort while bathing. If showering is preferred, we recommend pairing our shower chair with a handheld shower head for optimum comfort, safety, and privacy.
Transfer Tub Benches
Shower chairs provide stability once you’re in the bathtub or shower area. But, many falls happen during the transfer into the tub or shower. Transfer benches provide extra stability and safety during the transfer to prevent falls and injuries when dealing with a wet and slippery tub.
Transfer benches are easily adjustable to fit your height and your bathroom. And, they can be quickly reversed depending on if you desire more support on the right or left to transfer in comfortably.
Walk-in Bathtubs
The National Council of Aging states that over one in four Americans over the age of 65 will fall each year. And, one of the most common locations for falls is at the threshold of showers and bathtubs.
Walk-in bathtubs are designed to allow older adults and people with disabilities to bathe safely and independently in their homes. The threshold on these tubs is much lower than with a typical bathtub, and some have no threshold at all. The threshold seals with a door closed after entry. Walk-in bathtubs are also deeper to provide more options for bathing and soaking positions.Your privacy and independence matter.
