The bathroom is one of the highly functional areas of a house, and its functionality is significantly essential to the standard of living available to a household. The environment of this section also makes it one of the more dangerous sections of a residence. A study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that over 200, 000 people above the age of 15 visit the hospital as a result of injuries suffered in the bathroom. Approximately 14% of this number are admitted for treatment. Taking the time to ensure safety levels are up to standard in the bathroom is especially essential for households with younger children and senior citizens with mobility issues.
Some effective ways you can improve safety with a Bathroom Remodel include:
Increasing Traction
One of the main causes of injuries in the bathroom is slips and falls. The National Institute of Health reported that individuals between 41 to 60 represent the age group most susceptible to falls in the bathroom, but this is a risk faced by all ages. The report states that the high density of the hard flooring is one of the major reasons behind the potential morbidity and mortality rates of falls in this part of the house. Improving the traction of the floors is an effective means of reducing the risk of slips and falls. Installing non-slip solutions such as mats and non-skid decals is one of the simplest ways of reducing slipperiness. Replacing slick surfaces such as tiles with alternatives featuring more friction such as textured concrete and vinyl offers a longer-lasting solution for this particular problem. Installing grab bars is another good way to prevent falls in the shower. Adding a shower bench is a great solution for senior citizens and younger individuals with mobility problems.
Limit Overexertion
According to the CDC, overexertion represents the second leading cause of accidents that happen in the bathroom. This simply refers to overreaching or overstretching to access certain areas. This problem is especially serious when dealing with senior citizens and children. A good means of addressing this issue is by integrating bathroom seating in bathtubs and showers, as well as raising toilet seats for older individuals and providing stepping stools for younger users. It’s also essential to keep all items at eye level for easy access. This includes installing shelving and cabinets at least 24 inches above the toilet tank, while the same can be said for light switches. Countertops and vanities should also be between 32 to 34 inches in height to ensure elderly individuals can use them comfortably without having to overstretch or hunch over. Integrating cabinets and shower screens with a hydraulic function allows doors to be closed without the need for constant pressure until it’s slammed shut.
Enhanced Lighting
Ensuring the visibility of this space is adequate is highly essential in improving safety levels. Floors are generally more slippery when wet, but identifying stray puddles away from the shower zone isn’t always easy without the proper lighting. Any lighting fixtures integrated with a bathroom’s design should offer a good range of vision to ensure individuals don’t step into anything that could be detrimental to their well-being.
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