How to Improve Shower Safety for Seniors in Ann Arbor, MI

Around 77% of adults over the age of 50 are planning to stay in their homes as they age, with no long-term plans to move out. Whether you’re making aging-in-place plans for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to focus on shower safety. 

Seniors are most vulnerable when bathing, so making an effort to create a safer shower can go a long way in preventing any unfortunate accidents. With so many aging-in-place shower safety solutions, we’re certain you’ll find senior-friendly bathroom renovations that will improve your life or the lift of a loved one when it comes to safety. are a few things you can do to safeguard your shower:

Install Grab Bars

Start by installing grab bars, which can offer extra support when you’re standing in the shower. These grab bars can look sleek and stylish while giving you peace of mind that you can steady yourself if you start to fall or if can’t stand comfortably without assistance. With so many years of experience, you can trust Atlas for quality grab bar installation services in Ann Arbor!

Use a Shower Seat

As you get older, it’s not uncommon to find that you can no longer stand for extended periods of time. In that case, adding a shower seat can help give you a reprieve while you bathe. You can purchase a standalone shower chair, but we recommend installing a permanent shower chair instead, for extra security. Here at Atlas Home Improvement, we can add a customized built-in shower chair when remodeling your shower so it fits into the shower design and gives you a comfortable place to rest.

Install a Handheld Showerhead

If you do need to sit down while you bathe, you’ll want to install a handheld showerhead, which gives you more flexibility to maintain your independence as you get older. Be sure to look for a model with a comfortable grip that’s not too heavy so you don’t put a strain on your wrist and arm.

Renovate Your Bathroom to Include a Walk-In Shower

Stepping into and out of the shower is one of the most dangerous aspects of bathing. Some shower models have a lipped floor, causing a daily tripping hazard. You can eliminate that risk by installing a low-threshold walk-in shower in Ann Arbor, which has a safer, seamless entry that is especially helpful for those with mobility restrictions. 

Opt for a Non-Slip Shower Pan

When the smooth surface of your shower floor is wet from soap and water, it quickly becomes very slippery. This increases your risk of slipping and falling, putting you in a vulnerable position every day. To help keep you safe, have our team install a non-slip shower pan, which has a textured surface. This added traction helps keep you steady, even when the floor is wet. 

Install Built-In Shelving

Finally, if you’re remodeling your shower, consider installing built-in shelves so you can keep your favorite bathing products in close reach. Using shelves prevents you from having to move around your shower, reducing the risk of falling. If you install a shower chair as we mentioned above, be sure to put a shelf near it, so you can reach your products while you sit.

Consider Shower Safety When Planning Your Remodel

Now that you have a better understanding of options you have for assisted bathing solutions for seniors, you can start planning your bathroom remodel with the Atlas Home Improvement team. We have decades of experience creating safer bathrooms for seniors, making the aging-in-place process not only possible but enjoyable. Contact us today to take the first step toward a safer and more functional bathroom.