If you live with your elderly parents or other loved ones, it’s important to take precautionary steps to make the bathrooms as safe as possible. This enhances elderly independence and protects them from slips and falls. Here are some fixtures you might consider hiring a plumber to install for enhanced comfort and security.

Which Bathroom Fixtures Are Best for the Elderly?

1. Elevated Toilet

If the bathroom currently features a toilet that sits relatively low, you should hire a plumber to swap out the old one for an an elevated model. Taller toilets can make an enormous difference to seniors, especially if they require assistance from a person or a grab bar to sit down. You might also consider adding grab bars to the sides of the toilet to create handles on each side of the bowl.

2. Grab Bars

Adding grab bars to the bathroom is an effortless way to enhance the safety of the space. These sturdy bars are designed for seniors to grip for balance or support as they stand or sit. Install bars in practical places, such as adjacent to the toilet, inside the shower or bathtub, next to the doorway, and by the sink. In a large bathroom, it’s wise to install several bars so that there’s plenty of handholds on each wall as seniors move throughout the space.

3. Modified Shower

Standing in a shower or bathtub can be difficult for elderly individuals with mobility concerns. Install a new shower that features a seamless entry, instead of a traditional curb, and a built-in seat along the back wall. This design makes it easy for seniors to walk inside the shower and allows them to rinse off in a seated position, avoiding potential slips and falls. Have your plumber install a handheld showerhead that can also be left on the wall to provide your loved one with bathing options, depending on their needs.

If you’re seeking a trustworthy plumber to make your bathroom more senior-friendly, turn to the professionals at Fast Rooter Plumbing on Oahu, HI. This family-owned company has served the local community for over 20 years. In addition to installing a taller toilet seat and more practical shower heads for your loved ones, they can also handle other household tasks, such as pipe leaks, kitchen clogs, and slow drains. Visit the website to view their full list of services, or call (808) 734-4938 to schedule an appointment.