When it comes to making a home a safe place for aging people, it is always important to consider the bathroom first. It is sometimes dangerous to use the bathroom. The showers can be slippery; it can be challenging to get up from the toilet and get out of the bathtub. Therefore, custom grab bars can create a safer bathing and comfortable overall bathroom experience for seniors.
Falling in the bathroom can result in injuries ranging from bruises to broken bones to head trauma. A study by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that more than three million seniors are treated in emergency rooms every year after falling, and more than 80% of falls happen in bathrooms.
We can minimize injuries by making some environmental modifications, such as installing grab bars in the tub and shower, installing grab bars next to the toilet, installing non-slip strips in the tub, etc. In this article, the West Chester bathroom remodel contractor will guide you more on the use of grab bars.
Advantages Of Grab Bars
Many fun things, such as taking a bath, are avoided by senior citizens because of the fear of falling and being injured. Seniors do not want to put themselves at risk by bathing, so they become reluctant to do so. Installing grab bars in your shower or bath will eliminate this fear and boost confidence.
If you are 60 or older, you need to be cautious when sitting down and getting up from the toilet. It may be difficult for you to balance yourself.
You may feel reluctant to ask others for help with things you didn’t require before. By installing grab bars, you can maintain your independence. You can thus continue living your life as usual.
The Classification Of Grab Bars
Generally, grab bars can be classified as diagonal, horizontal, or vertical.
Diagonal Grab Bars
These grab bars provide flexibility in height, so your hands and wrists can be adjusted more naturally while transitioning from seated to standing. Nevertheless, standing up may put your hand at risk of slipping. It is possible to get a bar with a textured surface which will make the grip easier.
Horizontal Grab Bars
Horizontal grab bars are sturdy ones that allow you to rotate your body as well as helping you get out of the wheelchair and into the tub. They can also help you while you get dressed. The downside here is that horizontal grab bars are only available at a certain height.
Vertical Grab Bars
In comparison with other grab bars, vertical grab bars cover less wall space. Arthritis patients will have an easier time using these bars.
Different Types Of Grab Bars
Just like there are different ways to classify grab bars, there are also different types of grab bars, like the below.
Straight Safety Bars
The most basic grab bar – the straight bar – comes in various materials, finishes, lengths, and colors. Straight bars can be installed anywhere in the bathroom. Compared to the other grab bars, the straight bars offer more support as they are installed into the wall.
Curve Safety Bars
Curve safety bars might be an option for those looking for a strength and stability grab bar without an institutional feel. The curve safety bar comes with a sleek design, including a slight curve, and is compliant with the American Disabilities Act (ADA) when properly mounted.
Bathtub Safety Handles
Getting in and out of the tub is made easier with the safety handles attached to the edge of the tub. Having an adjustable height and several grasping areas makes bathtub safety bars versatile.
Corner Safety Bars
Corner grab bars make it easier when entering or going around corners. There are corner safety bars available with 90-degree angle bars, making them ideal for those who need stability both vertically and horizontally.
Where To Install Safety Bars In The Bathroom?
Making sure your grab bars are in the right place in your bathroom is crucial. To help you further consider bathroom danger zones, here is additional information on where to install your safety bars in the bathroom.
Commode Area
Depending on the home or room, the toilet area may differ. Therefore, safety bars don’t provide a universal solution for bathroom safety.
You can, however, install a horizontal safety bar approximately five to six inches above the toilet seat if the wall is adjacent to the toilet. Perpendicular to the horizontal bar, place another vertical safety bar for increased safety.
Shower And Tubs
You should always have grab bars within reach of the shower and bathtub to increase your bathroom safety.
Stall Showers
Stall showers are easier to enter and exit, but they can also be dangerous for stability-challenged individuals. A means of support should always be available when stepping into and out of a stall shower.
Grab bars are versatile and have various advantages for senior citizens. By understanding the different types of grab bars and the different locations in which they can be installed, you can make your bathroom a safer place.
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