Bathroom Remodel for Seniors: 7 Key Modifications to Make Your Space Safe and Accessible

Bathroom Remodel for Seniors: 7 Key Modifications to Make Your Space Safe and Accessible

In today's economy, it's not uncommon to find aging parents living with their adult children. Multigenerational families make up 18% of the U.S. population. Falls happen most often in the bathroom and are the leading cause of injury to older adults. According to the CDC, most falls occur when showering or using the toilet.

At Future Vision Remodeling, we understand how important it is for seniors to have a safe, accessible bathroom. Our expert team specializes in turning bathrooms into spaces that promote independence, reduce accident risks, and enhance overall quality of life. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning a bathroom remodel for seniors.

Planning Your Senior Bathroom Remodel

1. Assess Your Current Bathroom Layout

Before beginning any renovation, the first thing you need to do is evaluate your current bathroom layout. Scan the room for any potential hazards. Is the bathtub hard to get in and out of? Is the floor slippery after a shower? These are important questions to consider when attempting to make changes.

2. Setting a Budget

Setting a realistic budget for the changes you want to make will help you stay focused on needs vs wants. It would be nice to step out onto a heated floor after a shower, but can you really afford it? The cost of a bathroom remodel for seniors can vary widely, depending on the extent of modifications needed.

Before starting, you should also have an idea of what these modifications will cost. According to Angi.com, bathroom remodels in San Jose run from $13,670 - $30,415. $21,936 on the low end, and $50,000 on the higher end.

3. Consulting with Experts

Before making any plans, it's always wise to consult with local experts who are knowledgeable about remodeling bathrooms for older adults. Their years of experience and skill are invaluable.

Planning everything out will save you time, and money, and keep you from unexpected surprises. By assessing the current layout, setting a realistic budget, and consulting with experts, you'll be well on your way to creating a bathroom that is safe, comfortable, and perfect for seniors.

Safety Modifications for Seniors

Install a Grab Bar

Grab bars are a lifeline for someone who's a little unsteady on their feet. Strategically placed around the bathroom, these bars help support aging adults and foster independence.

For ADA-compliant fixtures, Moen and Delta are two names that stand for quality and accessibility. Two good options are the Moen Home Care Stainless Concealed Screw Grab Bar, and the Moen Brushed 8" Grab Bar with Toilet Paper Holder.

Grab bars anchor securely to wall studs and can hold up to 250 pounds. Professional installation is recommended in senior bathroom remodels for safety and compliance with ADA guidelines. In commercial buildings, there are requirements for placing grab bars. However, residential settings are not mandated. A good recommendation is to install a grab bar, at least 36 to 42 inches long, on the side or rear wall of the bathroom.

Walk-in Shower

Changing regular tubs or showers to walk-in types can make bathrooms much safer for older adults, especially those who have trouble moving or use wheelchairs. These showers don't have a raised edge to step over. The floor slopes gently towards the drain to keep water in place. This makes getting in and out much easier and safer.

Walk-In Tubs

These are great for people who like baths but find it hard to climb into regular tubs. They have a door that seals shut with a built-in seat. This lets you walk in, sit down, and enjoy your bath without stepping over any sides. The comfort of a relaxing bath, with the security of a jacuzzi tub.

Non-Slip Flooring

Bathroom floors can become dangerously slippery when wet, posing a significant risk to seniors. Some good options for non-slip flooring are textured tiles, vinyl flooring, non-slip mats, and non-slip coatings. Textured tiles provide traction due to their rough surface. Non-slip mats can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, even inside the tub.

A bathroom remodel for seniors should prioritize non-slip flooring to reduce the risk of falls.

Widen Doorways

One of the easiest modifications is to enlarge the door frame. Wider doorways enable older adults using walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices to move between rooms without assistance. They also make it quicker and easier for evacuations when necessary. Removing the drywall, cutting back the studs, and reframing the doorway can add 2 to 3 inches of width.

Lower Sink Height

Lowering sink height can reduce strain on the arms and back when leaning over the sink. Making the sink area more accessible can significantly improve a senior's ability to maintain their personal hygiene. Some modifications include wall-mounted sinks, which are more accessible to people using wheelchairs.

Handheld Shower Head

Reaching above your head becomes harder with age. Installing a handheld shower head with an extra-long hose allows for seated bathing and makes rinsing off a breeze. Standard shower heads can be hard to adjust, and don't reach as far as they should. Many people who struggle with reaching or can only use one hand find it easier to have one that they can detach and hold in their lap.

Smart Safety Features

Smart technology enables you to do more with less effort, which is very helpful to adults with limited mobility. A bathroom equipped with smart lights that automatically turn on and off reduces the risk of falls during nighttime visits. Motion-sensor faucets and touchless toilets can help maintain hygiene without the need for physical contact, which is especially beneficial for those with arthritis who have difficulty turning knobs.

To prevent accidental burns, smart shower systems can monitor water temperature and duration, ensuring a comfortable and safe bathing experience. Smart buttons or voice-activated assistants, provide a quick way to call for help if needed.

Trust the Experts at Future Vision Remodeling

A successful bathroom remodel for seniors balances aesthetics with functionality, creating a space that's both beautiful and practical. At Future Vision Remodeling, we understand that each senior's needs are unique. Our company brings over 15 years of experience to every project, with a specialized focus on creating safe and accessible bathrooms for seniors.

Our team of certified aging-in-place specialists has successfully completed hundreds of senior-friendly bathroom renovations throughout the San Jose area. We stay up-to-date with the latest ADA guidelines and innovative accessibility solutions to ensure that every bathroom we remodel meets the unique needs of older adults while maintaining style and comfort.

We will work closely with you to assess your specific requirements and design a bathroom that not only enhances safety but also maintains a stylish, comfortable atmosphere.

Don't wait for an accident to happen. Contact Future Vision Remodeling today for a free consultation.

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