If you have an elderly loved one who is losing their range of motion or muscle strength due to old age, you may be considering remodelling their home. By making a few changes, you can help your loved one to stay independent and safe. One area of the house which can be particularly hazardous to older people is the bathroom. Below is a guide to 5 things you should consider modifying during the remodeling process.

Improve access

If the bathroom is on an upper floor and your loved one finds it difficult to climb stairs, you should consider moving the bathroom to ground level. If there is an unused pantry or closet on the ground floor, this can easily be converted and fitted out with bathroom fixtures. If this relocation is not possible, you should consider installing a stairlift so your elderly relative can easily access the existing bathroom on the second floor.

Install supports

Elderly relatives who are unsteady on their feet can often benefit from hand and grab rails. These supports will help them to manoeuvre around the bathroom and will assist them as they get in and out of the shower or bath. You should also consider installing a bench within the shower so that your elderly loved one doesn't have to stand for extended periods of time.

Install easy-to-use controls

If your elderly relative struggles with their manual dexterity, you should consider installing easy-to-use controls. These controls feature oversized handles and touch-pads, which means your loved one will not have to struggle to try to turn on the shower or taps.

Install adjustable height countertops

If your loved one uses a wheelchair, you should consider installing adjustable height countertops. This will make it much easier for them to access the sink and other surfaces. Because the height of these surfaces can be adjusted, others who use the bathroom can use the countertops at a higher height if they so wish.

Use anti-slip mats

You should ensure that every floor surface within the bathroom is anti-slip. Bathrooms are perhaps the wettest and slipperiest places in any home. By putting anti-slip mats on the floor of the bathroom and shower, you can vastly reduce the chance that your loved one will suffer a fall.

If you would like more information about how you can remodel and adapt a bathroom for use by an elderly relative, you should contact a professional remodelling contractor today.