Whether you’re currently heading into your golden years or you have mobility issues at any age, you can remodel your bathroom for greater accessibility. Remodeling for aging in place is becoming more commonplace for a variety of reasons. In fact, many homeowners in their younger years and without accessibility needs are doing it to boost the value of their homes.
What Is Aging in Place?
Aging in place is when a person stays in their own home as they age. Since the needs of an aging person change, many homeowners are preemptively making accessibility modifications to their homes well in advance.
Also known as universal design, it brings together safety, practicality, and convenience that works for everyone. It’s also modern in aesthetic and adds great value to any home when it’s time to sell.
Why Remodel Your Bathroom for Accessibility?
Many people in Seattle choose to age in place because they love their neighborhood. Others find great comfort in the homes they currently live in and want to spend their years there.
There are many age-related and health-related reasons why you’d want to create an accessible bathroom in your home. Your mobility may be gradually declining with each passing year or a chronic health condition may be worsening.
Even for those who are still young, traumatic events can and do happen. If you have suffered from a life-altering injury, you may need to remodel your bathroom. If you care for your parents, in-laws, or other aging relatives at home, make these upgrades to make life easier for all of you.
Features to Consider for Your Accessible Bathroom
No matter what kind of home you have, your bathroom is the most frequently used space. It’s also considered a wet zone, meaning that slips are far more common in this room than in any other place in your home. For a bathroom remodel Seattle homeowners should consider these safety and accessibility features.
Spacious Zero-Threshold Shower
With mobility issues, it can be difficult to step into the shower. If you eliminate the need to step and allow for a wheelchair or walker to get through with ease, anyone can use it. The added space also makes it look incredibly luxurious. You can add a sturdy shower bench or even have one built in. A handheld shower head and grab bars ensure your shower is accessible.
Walk-In Tub
If you still want a tub and relish those soothing soaks, have a walk-in tub installed. There’s no need to climb in, and it makes it much easier to relax amid bubbles without a struggle.
Non-Slip Flooring
Even those without accessibility concerns as of yet should make sure to choose non-slip flooring. You can slip and fall on a wet bathroom floor at any age. Slippery showers and tubs are another hazard. If you eliminate the slippage, you’ll keep yourself and your loved ones safer.
Additionally, sinks with wheelchair access, grab bars by the toilet, and a universal lighting scheme with accessible fixtures will make your bathroom upgrade complete.
