As we grow older, navigating certain areas within the home can prove difficult. As mobility becomes lessened, there are adjustments which can be made in existing spaces to make them feel more accessible. The bathroom can be notably challenging due to the presence of slip-prone surfaces and unsuspecting hazards which are harder to deal with for the less mobile. Here, we take a look at the key differences between ordinary products and specialist bathroom equipment, to understand how they can impact the life of the user.
Poor balance or unsteadiness can be common in the elderly, but it can also be a side effect of various medical conditions or happen because of rehabilitation from an injury/operation. Some people are left feeling helpless and dependent on the assistance of others because of this, and it can be a frustrating experience. You can make a series of helpful additions to your home, which allow you to regain some independence and restore normality.
A bathroom fall can be extremely damaging to a person’s confidence, and something as simple as a non-slip bath mat can make a world of difference. Often, these mats are made from rubber to fix them into position and provide a stable base for a shower or bath. Specialist options are crafted to be more slip resistant, as some standard alternatives do not provide adequate support. Specialist bath mats are also available in a wide variety of sizes and lengths, a feature which is less common in standard mats. They are simple to install and provide a cost-effective solution for those looking to cater to limited mobility, significantly reducing the risk of falls.
Another idea to increase the accessibility of your bathroom is by installing an adapted toilet seat. These tend to be designed so that they are higher than normal toilet seats, allowing the user to feel comfortable, removing the hazards associated with unsteady balance. The conventional toilet seat can be difficult for those who are affected by unsteadiness, as it requires a considerable amount of balance to stand up and sit down. The raised surface reduces the amount of independent balance necessary, which makes a fall less likely. Again, an adapted toilet seat is not a costly investment for a home, but it can make a huge difference in how the user navigates the space. They are also great solutions for improving hygiene, The installation of a raised toilet seat is a straight forward process, and it can be carried out by a plumber or competent DIYer. They provide a subtle solution for those who struggle with balance, and some models are detachable, so the user can fit it at their own discretion.
The benefit from making small changes to your home can be fundamental for supporting current mobility issues, or they can provide peace of mind by futureproofing your home. These adjustments can maximise accessibility and enhance quality of life, allowing people to feel independent despite having limited mobility. By making adaptations to your bathroom, you can enhance the practicality of your space drastically, and this will benefit you in the long term.