Aging in Place Solutions: Creating a Shower or Tub that Prioritizes Safety

When remodeling your shower or tub, it's essential to consider mobility options that prioritize safety and accessibility. Incorporating features that cater to individuals with

limited mobility, disabilities, or those looking to age in place can significantly enhance the functionality and convenience of your bathroom. Let's explore a variety of mobility options and features available for shower and tub remodels from BathNow of Chattanooga, providing you with a comprehensive guide to create a safe and accessible bathing space.

1. Grab Bars: Grab bars are a fundamental feature of all of our BathNow showers.

They offer stability and support when entering, exiting, or maneuvering within the shower or tub area. We install grab bars strategically at appropriate heights to ensure a secure

grip and prevent slips and falls. Consider vertical, horizontal, or angled grab bars for versatility and customization. For example, we traditionally mount angled bars for seats, to aid in getting up.

1. Shower Seats: Shower seats provide a convenient and comfortable option for individuals who prefer or require seating while bathing. They can be installed as wall mounted foldable seats or integrated in to the design of walk-in showers.

Shower seats promote safety, reduce fatigue, and accommodate those with limited standing ability.

1. Low Thresholds: Eliminating or minimizing thresholds between the bathroom floor and the shower or tub area improves accessibility. With low or zero thresholds,

Low Threshold Walk-In Shower

individuals can easily enter and exit without the need to step over obstacles, reducing the risk of tripping or stumbling. We can install zero thresholds for wheelchair access. Our walk-in showers always have a low threshold of various heights.

1. Walk-in Showers: Walk-in showers are an excellent choice for those seeking ease of access and a spacious bathing area. These showers feature low or no thresholds, allowing individuals to enter without needing to step over barriers. Walk-in showers can be customized with grab bars, non-slip flooring, built-in seating, and handheld shower heads for enhanced safety and convenience.

2. Walk-in Tubs: Walk-in tubs provide a secure and luxurious bathing experience, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those who prefer the therapeutic

benefits of soaking in a tub. Equipped with a water-tight door, walk-in tubs allow individuals to step in through a low threshold, eliminating the need for climbing over the tub wall. We offer plain soaker tubs, and also fully-loaded tubs with features such as built-in seating, grab bars, anti-slip surfaces, aromatherapy, and therapeutic features such as whirlpool or air jet systems.

1. Handheld Shower Heads: Handheld shower heads offer flexibility and ease of use for individuals with limited mobility. They allow for adjustable height and direction, making it convenient to reach and direct water flow as needed. Handheld shower heads can be mounted on a slide bar for further customization and accessibility.

2. Non-Slip Flooring: Installing non-slip flooring in the shower or tub area is crucial for preventing slips and falls. Our shower pans have texture, but if extra grip is required, materials such as non-slip mats are always an option.

3. Lever-style Faucets: Replace traditional knobs with lever-style faucets to make controlling water flow and temperature easier for individuals with limited dexterity or strength. Lever handles require less grip strength and can be operated using the palm or forearm.

4. Clear Pathways and Adequate Lighting: Ensure clear pathways leading to and from the shower or tub area, allowing for easy movement without obstructions. Adequate lighting is crucial for visibility and safety. Install bright, well-positioned lighting fixtures to eliminate dark spots and enhance visibility within the bathing area. We often install led lights into the ceilings of showers.

Conclusion: By incorporating mobility options and safety features into your shower or tub remodel, you can create a bathing space that is safe, accessible, and tailored to your specific needs. From grab bars and shower seats to low thresholds, walk-in showers, and walk-in tubs, the possibilities for enhancing mobility are vast. These features not only improve safety and convenience but also promote independence and peace of mind for individuals with limited mobility.

Keep in mind, these modifications not only serve practical purposes but also add value and appeal to your home. Accessible bathrooms are sought after by potential buyers and can increase the resale value of your property. If you'd like to know how we can make your bathroom safer, call your Chattanooga bath and shower remodelers at BathNow!

Enjoy this video of a walk-in tub transformation we built a while back, to create a safer bathing experience!