Bathroom Renovations for Homeowners Deciding to Age-in Place
Homeowners decide to embark on bathroom renovations in Wellesley for any number of reasons. In some cases, a home’s current bathroom is outdated or not fully functional. In others, a homeowner wants to expand the space and create a larger bathroom. Another common reason people decide to pursue a bathroom remodel in Wellesley is because they’re planning to sell their home and want it to be as appealing as possible to potential buyers.
There is yet another reason an increasing number of homeowners are interested in a bathroom remodel in Massachusetts. They’re entering their golden years and want to retrofit their home so they’ll be able to age in place safely and comfortably. If this is the reason you’re considering this important task, here are three areas to focus on to maximize safety and functionality for seniors.
Don’t Overlook the Doorway
You or your aging relatives may be mobile now, but one day it may be necessary for a wheelchair or walker to fit through the doorway. If you’re remodeling anyway, be proactive and widen the doorway. That step will be beneficial, even for those who can walk without assistance. It also will make it easier when a senior must be guided to the bathroom by a caregiver.
Remodeling services can make it easier to age in place.
Focus on Bathing Safety
Slips and falls are increasingly common among seniors and especially dangerous for this age group. Bones become more brittle and reflexes slower. Seniors aren’t able to catch themselves before they fall and are more likely to break bones if they do. When you’re pursuing remodeling services in Massachusetts with the goal of making a bathroom safer for seniors, discuss the following features with your contractor:
- Handrails
- Shower and/or tub seating
- Eliminating the tub altogether and creating a spacious walk-in shower large enough to accommodate a wheelchair
- Using small floor and shower floor tiles (this creates friction and reduces the likelihood of slipping)
- Installing a hand-held shower fixture that’s easier to use while seated
Other Considerations for Retrofitting a Bathroom for Aging in Place
Especially if you anticipate the bathroom will be shared by wheelchair and non-wheelchair users, consider installing two sinks: one at standard height and the other designed for children and wheelchair users. Consider cabinets with glass doors so residents can easily find what they need. Make sure there is plenty of lighting in the bathroom and in the hallway leading to it. Plan to install an outlet near the bathroom so you can plug in a night light to light the way for those nightly bathroom trips.
Regardless of why you’re interested in remodeling your bathroom, we encourage you to contact us at Colony Home Improvement. Our skilled team has decades of experience providing remodeling services in Massachusetts. We’ve transformed hundreds of Massachusetts homes and will gladly provide you with recommendations from happy clients. We’re happy to meet with you and provide expert advice on how we can make your bathroom beautiful, functional, and safe for all ages.