If you are getting ready to embark on a bathroom remodel and are over 50 years old, you might want to consider making plans for your future throughout the email. If you’re planning on staying in the house long term, consider making adjustments to the bathroom that can age with you. This is known as aging in place. Remodeling a bathroom with aging in place in mind will make the process look differently. You will need to consider things you wouldn’t otherwise. In & Exterior Handyman Services is here to walk you through what you should consider in an aging in place bathroom remodel.
How to Design an Aging in Place Bathroom
When designing a bathroom that you will be able to grow old in, you want to consider some specific design elements. Here is where you should start.
– Entrance: The first thing you will want to think about is the entrance into the bathroom. Older homes likely have smaller and more narrow door frames. You want the door frame to be at least 32” wide. This is wide enough that a wheelchair will be able to get through the door if needed.
– Grab Bars: In the shower space, you will want to have blocking installed so that a grab bar can be put in that is secure and able to handle the weight of an individual that uses it. Don’t worry about the appearance of them. There are several grab bars that are quite beautiful and don’t have to look like one you would see in a hospital.
– Shower: The shower in your bathroom is going to need to have some modifications. For instance, you will need a curb less or low threshold entry. You will also need to choose a shower door that swings out rather than in. Some homes have a large enough space that you don’t have to do a shower door at all. If this is an option, that’s even better. Another consideration for the shower is installing a shower bench to sit on. This will be valuable as you get older.
– Vanity: The vanity is also something that you can consider when it comes to aging in place. By raising the vanity off the floor and floating it 9” above the floor, you can accommodate the wheels of a walker.
– Bathtub: If you have decided that you want a bathtub in your bathroom, you can consider a bathtub that is lower to the ground. You don’t want to have to step over it. You can also consider a walk in bathtub.
Handyman & Home Repairs in Winchester, Front Royal, Middletown, Berryville, Harrisonburg, & Greater Woodstock, Virginia
If you are ready to remodel your bathroom and want to be able to age with it, you can turn to In & Exterior Handyman Services to help you create a beautiful space that will allow you to age gracefully. Call us today!
