Bathroom Checklist

The bathroom is often the last room we visit before going to sleep … and the first one we visit after waking up.  While we use the bathroom at various times throughout our day, we need to make sure this space is safe and comfortable for people of all ages, especially for baby boomers and their parents.

To make life easier for all members of the family the IM Store team created a helpful list of simple suggestions and products.

• Use slip-resistant flooring throughout bathroom and bathtub/shower.
• Add a shower seat to prevent long periods of standing while showering. Consider removable chair or wall-mounted seat.
• Add an adjustable handheld showerhead and 6 foot hose.  Allows for showering while standing up or sitting down.
• Install grab bars for shower or bath so individuals can confidently bend down and move around when bathing; also helps maintain balance. Make sure adequate wall bracing exists for proper installation of any grab bars.
• Use low-threshold or no-threshold (curbless) showers to make entry easier.
• Add anti-scald, pressure-balanced faucets to showers to maintain safe and comfortable water temperature during sudden changes in water pressure.
• Locate towel bars and hooks within arm’s reach of the bathtub/shower.
• Check to make sure bathroom ventilation fans are working properly.
• Consider the height of toilet; those that are 2-1/2 inches higher from the floor than standard toilet make getting on and off easier.
• Locate toilet paper holder within arm’s reach of the toilet. Install grab bars to assist with sitting down/standing up.
• Install countertop at a comfortable height. Have a contrasting color edge border. Avoid cabinets and fixtures with sharp edges.
• Store frequently used items near the area where they are being used.
• Make sure electrical/appliance cords are not dangling near water areas.
• Install lever handles to make doors easier to grip. Install lever or wrist blade style handles to make faucets easier to turn. Replace cabinet and drawer pulls with D-shaped handles.
• Make sure lighting is sufficient; if not, switch to brighter lights or install additional light fixtures. Make sure bath/shower area has proper lighting.
• Use large rocker plates in place of toggle switches. Also consider glowing switch to help locate switch in low light conditions.
• Clear away the clutter on floors, countertops, and in bathtubs/showers.