Bathroom Access: Mobility Solutions from 101 Mobility® Dallas‘ Gordon Raney
You may not realize it, but your bathroom packs a lot into one small space: the tub, shower, toilet, and sink are all crammed into one room. Gordon Raney, Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) and owner of 101 Mobility® Dallas, explains how a bathroom remodel could help any homeowner create the space they need in their home. “Think about a scenario in which a person would find themselves in a wheelchair, and see if your bathroom still makes sense,” he says. “If not, a bathroom remodels could help your family out a great deal.”
Grab Bars/Toilet Area – To make maneuvering around the toilet easier, consider installing grab bars. A grab bar is a safety device designed to enable a person to maintain balance and have something to hold onto to prevent a fall or slip when moving about the bathroom. For optimal safety, leave a clear, generous space around your toilet area to minimize accidental trips or injuries.
Walk-in Tub vs. Roll-in Tub – To safely get into the tub or shower, little to no elevation changes or thresholds to cross over is an ideal scenario. A roll-in tub is one that can be usedby everyone—whether they’re walking on their feet, rolling in a wheelchair, or transferring into a shower chair. Because a roll-in shower is universal, it does not affect home resale values and can be an attractive addition to any bathroom. Different from a roll-in tub, a walk-in tub requires the individual to step over a threshold, turn around on a slippery surface, and sit down to bathe. Additionally, a walk-in tub almost always affects the resale value of a home due to its limited functionality. When considering a tub remodel, consider all of your options and talk it out with a professional installer to ensure the right choice for your family.
Alternative – If your bathroom space or modification budget is limited, consider alternative products like an overhead ceiling lift. This device works off of an overhead track system that is mounted to the ceiling or walls. After installation, caregivers can easily lift and maneuver someone onto a toilet or into the bathtub. Typical systems range from $5,000 to $10,000 and should be evaluated, sold, and installed by professionals.
Still, have questions about how to make your bathroom more accessible? No problem, find your nearest 101 Mobility location by clicking here. Check back for more expert advice from Certified Aging in Place Specialist and owner of 101 Mobility® Dallas Gordon Raney!