Designing a shower with safety in mind

Bathrooms, particularly showers and shower-tub combinations, can present safety concerns in the home. Yet some homeowners may think grab bars are something they will never need.

Grab bars can help people dealing with balance or mobility issues, including those recovering from knee, hip or shoulder replacement surgery. Those limitations may be temporary or permanent, but preparing the bathroom before they arise can make it easier and safer to use.

In some bathrooms, two strategically placed grab bars may be enough. One can provide support when entering or leaving the shower, while another can help with balance while showering.

For homeowners concerned about appearance, today’s grab bars don’t necessarily have to give a bathroom an institutional look. They are available in different shapes, colors and finishes and can be incorporated into shampoo shelves, corner soap shelves, towel bars and toilet paper holders. Other options include curved, wave-shaped, vertical and L-shaped designs. Some vertical grab bars can also accommodate an adjustable handheld shower.

Safety should be the primary consideration, but that doesn’t mean homeowners have to sacrifice the look of the bathroom.

Grab bars can be installed in existing fiberglass, cultured marble and tile showers and tubs, but installation requires care. Different materials may require specialized drill bits, and the type of anchor needed can vary with the installation. The submitted guidance recommends grab bars with a weight capacity of at least 300 pounds.

Homeowners remodeling a bathroom may also want to consider how easily they could use the shower if their mobility changes in the future.

One option is a level-entry, or curbless, shower. Eliminating the curb can make entering and leaving the shower easier for someone using a wheelchair or walker, whether the need is temporary or permanent.

The location of grab bars should also be considered during the planning process. They should provide useful support while fitting into the overall bathroom design.

A fold-down seat is another option. A handheld shower mounted on an adjustable slide along a vertical grab bar can provide additional flexibility while showering and can also be useful when cleaning the shower.

Taking accessibility and safety into account during a bathroom renovation can help create a shower that is easier and safer to use, both now and as household needs change.

Marcel and Linda Sarrasinare co-owners of Linmar, consultants in independent home living solutions
www.linmarconsultants.com