Bathroom Remodeling Projects Emphasize Luxury, Safety for Seniors

There are many new features for bathroom remodeling projects today that emphasize safety and luxury. As homeowners reach retirement age, they ideally spend more time at home and want to make the bathroom a more relaxing place that meets their physical limitations that come with age. Many older homes are not wheelchair accessible. The bathroom is one place to consider upgrading before it is needed in the event a family member has an accident or surgery. Another possibility is having senior parents come to visit often or stay. There are several different upgrades that can be made in bathroom remodeling projects. These are just a few.

Railings
About one-third of all adults age 65 and over fall each year. About half of all seniors who fall cannot get up without help, even when they are not injured. Many of these incidents occur in the bathroom. Having a railing to grasp reduces the risk of slipping and falling while getting in and out of the bathtub or shower. Towel racks are sometimes used by seniors instead. These fixtures are not sturdy enough to handle human body weight. One of the advantages of adding hand railings in the bathrooms, bathtubs and showers as part of a residential remodeling project is that they are up to code and properly installed by a professional home remodeling contractor. The best placement, material and attachment methods are used. When wall coverings and tile are changed as part of the custom remodeling project, coordinate the railings with these items for a more uniform look.

Flooring
Use non-slip flooring or carpet in the bathrooms to prevent accidents. For those who use wheelchairs or walkers, the threshold between the bathroom and hallway or adjoining rooms should be flat and seamless. This can be accomplished as part of a bathroom remodeling project. Proper placement of drains, drip-free doors and a smooth flooring surface will prevent pooling of water during showers and baths.

Countertops
Consider countertop height when designing a bathroom remodeling project. Will the individual be in a wheelchair? Is there enough countertop or vanity space for all of the necessities in a daily routine? Something to consider is countertop, cabinet and storage space for small appliances, medications and hygiene products. Countertops can be elegant without sacrificing function. Popular materials for vanity and counter space include marble, laminate surfaces and granite.

Amenities
One of the things that makes the bathroom a place of luxury and comfort is the right amount of warmth. Heat and moisture sooth aching muscles and help people relax. Modern features include towel warmers, heated floors and lighting fixtures, therapeutic tubs and spas, luxurious shower chairs and hand-held shower heads. Use dimmer switches and sensor lighting to control the darkness or brightness.

Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like to learn more about Northern Virginia bathroom remodeling, visit http://www.fosterremodeling.com.