For many, the desire to remain in their own homes as they age, surrounded by familiar comfort and memories, becomes more important. This concept, often called "aging in place" has become a preferred alternative to moving into a retirement community or assisted living facility. As such, many homeowners are looking for ways to adapt their homes—particularly their bathrooms—to support their or a loved one’s changing needs.
Let’s explore what aging in place is, why it has become so popular, and how to make bathroom upgrades to ensure a safer, more comfortable living environment.
What Is Aging in Place?
Aging in place means staying in one's own home rather than relocating to a specialized facility as one age. The idea is to make one's home more accommodating as one experiences age-related changes in mobility, vision, or cognitive function. Aging in place allows people to retain their independence, continue enjoying their social connections, and maintain a familiar lifestyle—all while getting the necessary support at home if needed.
Why Aging in Place Is Getting So Popular
Aging in place is becoming more popular for several key reasons. First, it allows individuals to maintain a sense of control over their lives. Being able to live in the same home for decades fosters a sense of continuity and stability. Moreover, staying in one’s home helps preserve mental and emotional well-being by avoiding the challenges of adjusting to a new living environment.
Financial considerations also play a role in the rise of aging in place. Moving to a retirement community or assisted living facility can be expensive. By modifying their homes to accommodate changing needs, people can avoid costly relocation expenses and the ongoing costs associated with long-term care.
Ways to Make Your Bathroom Safer
The bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas in the home for older adults. Its slippery floors, hard-to-reach fixtures, and limited accessibility often lead to accidents.
Here are just a few ways to make your bathroom safer and more comfortable for aging adults:
- Install Grab Bars: Grab bars provide essential support when standing, sitting, or moving around the bathroom. To reduce the risk of falls, install them in key areas such as the shower, bathtub, and toilet.
- Non-Slip Flooring: Bathrooms are notorious for being slippery when wet. Replace traditional flooring with non-slip materials like textured vinyl or rubber. Non-slip mats or rugs can also be placed near the shower, bathtub, and toilet to prevent falls.
- Walk-In Showers or Bathtubs: Traditional tubs with high sides can be difficult and unsafe to climb over. Installing a walk-in shower or bathtub with a low threshold allows for easier access. Include a built-in bench for added comfort and safety when bathing.
- Adjustable Shower Heads: An adjustable, handheld showerhead is ideal for individuals with limited mobility. It allows for more control over the water flow, and it can be mounted on the wall for easy use.
- Height-Adjusted Fixtures: Installing a comfort-height toiler and adjusting the height of sinks can make daily tasks easier. Raised toilet seats help prevent strain when sitting or standing, and adjusting sink height ensures comfort and reduces the need for bending over.
- Bright, Even Lighting: Good lighting is critical for preventing falls, especially in the bathroom where visibility can be poor. Install bright, even lighting to eliminate shadows and enhance visibility, particularly around the shower, bathtub, and toilet.
At Blau Sudden Service, we offer a variety of solutions for making your bathroom safer and more accessible for all.
Contact us today to learn more or for a custom proposal.