Aging affects all of us throughout our lives, whether it’s caring for our aging family members, or caring for ourselves, the time comes when our home poses dangerous situations to our health and safety. The limitations caused by inaccessible bathroom fixtures, showers and toilets, can leave homeowners with a devastating decision to leave their home they love or stay knowing that they are at risk for a fall or injury. The average U.S. life expectancy is rising with women living into their 80s and men
living into their late 70s on average, accessibility is an important topic that younger generations are facing when caring for parents and grandparents. The number one concern is safety while keeping loved ones in their homes that they have grown to love.
Since the American Disability Act was formed in 1990, accessible plumbing has become a solution for this concern for millions of Americans. With the introduction of comfort height toilets with grab rails, barrier free showers, handheld showerheads, hand free faucets, and
walk in tubs, those with disabilities can stay in their homes with comfort and safety in mind. Understanding your options and the difference in accessible plumbing fixtures will help determine what and when to install these features verses turning to a short or long term care facility for your loved one.
Bathroom Design Features
The most common type of accessible bathroom feature is comfort height toilets. This type of toilet is 18” high instead of the standard 14”to 16” height of a normal toilet. This allows for less strain and pain on the back of the person using the facility as well as the caregiver. Grab rails are placed near the toilet for additional support if adequate space is available to move with comfort.
With age our hands are often a source of constant pain. Installing hands-free faucets are an added benefit for people suffering with hand or wrist injuries or Hands-free faucets detect hands and turn on automatically without stressing hands. When you withdraw hands the water turns off automatically. The temperature is predetermined and there is no reason for adjustment on a daily basis. This will reduce water bill expense as well as making the experience easier.
Handicap showers that include grab bars, handheld showerheads and seats, offer a safe and stable way for homeowners to be independent while ensuring safety. These showers are also called barrier-free showers, meaning they are accessible by wheelchairs.
Accessible plumbing innovation has enabled homeowners to remain in their homes longer and safer. For more information on accessible toilets and helpful plumbing information, check Mike Wilson Plumbing’s blog monthly! If you experience a plumbing emergency or need, call Mike at (804) 641-6570.