A safe bathroom becomes essential as we age. Sadly, many seniors resist upgrading their bathrooms because of presumed high costs. Fortunately, if you start a search online, you can find senior accessible bathroom fixtures that won’t break the bank.
Aging presents unique challenges in our daily routines, especially when it comes to ensuring a safe bathroom space. Thankfully, crafting a senior accessible bathroom doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. Plan and shop smart with these tips!
Walk-In Showers and Tubs
Walk-in showers and tubs are great for reducing the risk of slipping because they allow seniors to walk straight in without needing to climb over high edges. To save on these, consider opting for a shower instead of a tub as they are generally more affordable.
Also, keep an eye out for discounts or sales on walk-in tubs. By researching online, you can gain deeper insights into the vast array of options available.
Non-Slip Flooring
A slippery bathroom floor can pose significant dangers. To make your bathroom safer without replacing the entire floor, you might think about adding non-slip mats or stickers. 1 Recycled or discounted tiles that are designed for better grip can also be a viable solution.
Keeping the floor clean and free from mold or slime also plays a role in reducing its slipperiness. Dive into online resources to discover more about non-slip floor enhancements.
Grab Bars
Providing support and stability, grab bars are essential for a senior accessible bathroom. While purchasing these bars, look for options that strike a balance between sturdiness and affordability.
With the right tools and a bit of guidance, which you can find online, you can even install them yourself. Frequenting hardware discount stores or waiting for sales can also help cut down costs.
Raised Toilet Seats
Making the process of sitting down and standing up smoother, raised toilet seats are another bathroom addition to consider. Instead of investing in a brand-new toilet, simply buy a toilet seat riser. 2
It’s wise to compare prices across different stores or online platforms and even look into second-hand options that are still in good condition. By doing a bit of online searching, you can understand the range and advantages of raised seats available.
Adequate Lighting
Ensuring that seniors can see clearly is crucial, and this can be achieved with proper lighting. Bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs can be your go-to choice. Additionally, installing motion-sensor lights can be both efficient and cost-saving.
Looking out for seasonal sales or discount stores can further save costs. There are many online resources that detail the most suitable lighting options for bathrooms, and a quick search can be enlightening.
Accessible Storage
To ensure that everything is within easy reach and there’s no need to stretch or bend, accessible storage solutions are key. You can repurpose existing furniture to meet bathroom storage needs or hunt for second-hand or discounted bathroom cabinets.
Simple shelves can also be an economical alternative to expensive storage units. Exploring online platforms can provide a treasure trove of DIY storage ideas perfect for senior accessible bathrooms.
Lever Faucets
Lever faucets are easier to turn on and off compared to traditional knobs. Instead of replacing the entire faucet set, just swap out the knobs for levers.
Shop during sales or at discount stores to get the best deals. To understand the mechanism and benefits of lever faucets better, researching online will be beneficial.
Home Repair and Upgrade Grants for Seniors
For many seniors, the upkeep and modification of their homes can be financially taxing. Fortunately, various grants are available to alleviate the monetary strain of home repairs and upgrades.
One prominent program is the Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants. This initiative provides loans and grants to eligible elderly homeowners to repair or modernize their dwellings. 3 Meanwhile, low-income seniors can explore another USDA program, the Section 504 Home Repair Program, which provides funds to improve homes or remove health and safety hazards.
Seniors are encouraged to explore these and other similar programs online, as these funds can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. With more grant opportunities courtesy of Veteran Affairs and state-specific programs, it’s clear that making essential home improvements is more accessible than ever.
A Senior Accessible Bathroom Provides Peace of Mind
A senior accessible bathroom should never compromise on safety. However, with smart choices and a little research, you can achieve this goal without straining your wallet. Embrace the digital age and harness the power of the internet. By researching online, you can uncover countless ways to save while ensuring your home remains a safe haven for your loved ones.
Upgrading your senior accessible bathroom doesn’t have to be a chore; by planning and shopping wisely, you can enjoy the process. Moreover, you’ll have peace of mind that you or your elderly loved ones are safe at home.
