Remodeling Your Bathroom for Aging in Place

Posted by Ben Thompson on 07.22.19

It’s a fact that as we get older and our needs change, certain areas of our homes may become difficult to navigate and cumbersome to use. The last thing many homeowners want to do is move out of the homes and neighborhoods that they love.  The great news is that you don’t have to. Instead of moving, you can remodel your home for aging in place by modifying it for better safety, comfort and functionality.Two of the most common areas needing updates are bathroom and kitchens.  Some homeowners have concern that an aging in place remodel will look institutional and lack style, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Experienced designers will design spaces that are both highly functional and beautiful.

If you are considering a bathroom aging in place remodel, you will want to include some or all of the key design elements listed below.

  1. Curbless shower. Make getting into and out of the shower super easy by installing a no-threshold or curbless shower with a wide or open entry.
  2. Shower bench.Having a safe place to sit is essential.
  3. Handheld showerheads.These will make showering much easier, particularly if you need to be seated while bathing.
  4. Grab bars. For those times when you need extra leverage. You’ll be surprised at the great looking options available today that double as towel racks or shelves.
  5. Lever faucets and door handles.Levers don’t require grasping and are much easier for arthritic hands to use.
  6. Raised vanities. If the standard height of 31 ½” feels uncomfortable, raise yours to 34 ½” to accommodate easier use of the sink and mirror.
  7. Comfort height toilet seat. For easier sitting and standing select a toilet that is 17-19” high.
  8. Adequate lighting. Incorporate multiple sources of light so that all areas of the bathroom can be used with ease including recessed lighting, overhead lighting in the shower, vanity lighting, and natural light sources.

If  an aging in place remodel is in your future, give us a call at (616) 942-1866 to discuss your needs. It’s our ultimate goal to help homeowners love where they live!

 

 

Topics: Featured, bathroom remodel, aging in place