Bathroom updates aren’t just a nice idea; they’re a smart and safe decision. A home that accommodates children, seniors, or physical challenges would also benefit from a little extra attention in the most-used room in the house. It can take hours of time and thousands of dollars to pull off a basic bathroom renovation though. Just about anyone who has invested into such a project would say that it’s worth the functionality and appearance, but not everyone wants to make such a jump just yet. That’s okay, because there are simple updates that you can add to every bathroom to make it more functional and user-friendly.
Bodies of all sizes and varieties can appreciate a little assistance with getting out of the tub and off the toilet. A grab bar offers stability and a gentle lift that helps ease the strain on short toddler legs and tired bodies. They used to be terrible plastic eyesores, but now they’re available in polished chrome and brushed nickel. They’re also able to blend into the bathroom by being combining with other uses. Multi-purpose grab bars can be incorporated into toilet paper holders, shelving, towel bars, or be installed around the shower knob.
The bathroom comes with big risk of slippery spills, so non-slip flooring is critical for shaky legs and excited children. If you have the confidence and the basics required for flooring installation, a change in flooring can cut down the risk of slips in the home. If that sort of project is beyond the current budget of time and money, the bathroom would certainly benefit from non-slip mats in the bathtub and — if wheelchairs and crutches aren’t necessary to accommodate — secure low-threshold rugs at the tub, toilet, and sink.
Some fixtures may be installed at heights that make access challenging. Adjusting the level at which toilet paper holders and towel bars are installed could make a big difference in easing strain. Bathroom cupboards could also be simplified by installing roll-out bins that make cupboard contents accessible without all the digging and crouching. Cabinetry could be improved further by buying larger knobs and pulls for cabinetry and greasing up rusty hinges. Cupboards and drawers that can be opened with a closed fist will take a big burden off of arthritic hands. Light switches could be updated with this same idea in mind. It’s important to have electrical experience for safety reasons, but replacing a toggle switch with a easy-to-use rocker switch can be very simple and inexpensive.
Now that you know some important basics, it’s worth taking a look at Disability.gov to see if your particular home situation may be eligible for financial assistance and other disability-based resources.
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