A 2011 New York Times Article titled “Watch Your Step While Washing Up,” cited a Center of Disease Control report stating that “…every year about 235,000 people over the age of 15 visit emergency rooms because of injuries suffered in the bathroom, and almost 14% are hospitalized.” The report also states that “the most hazardous activities… are bathing, showering and getting out of the tub or shower” and “injuries getting on and off the toilet are quite high in people 65 and older.” The lead author of this CDC. report, Judy Stevens, said that “…everyone would benefit from having grab bars both inside the tub or shower…”
Along with installing grab bars, there are many upgrades that Rocket Rooter can install to make your home safer and more livable. Here is a list of common accessibility upgrades:
TOILET HANDRAILS
Accessible (ADA-compliant) toilet handrail
Aging knees and lower backs will thank you for this upgrade. Fainting when standing from a seated position is a danger for elderly individuals or individuals on blood thinner medications.
Accessible (ADA-compliant) shower handrail
SHOWER HANDRAILS
Water and soap are the first two ingredients for an emergency room visit. The C.D.C report states that of exiting the shower accounts for 10% of all bathroom-related injuries. Handrails don’t have to be industrial-looking. Check out these cool designs we found at wayfair.com: (https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/sb0/grab-bars-c1857355.html)
ADA HEIGHT TOILETS
Accessible (ADA-compliant) toilet
A taller toilet means less wear and tear on the knees. ADA toilets are between 16” and 18” tall versus the common toilet height of 15” this is a noticeable difference to taller individuals, the elderly, or those with mobility problems.
WALL MOUNT OR WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SINK
Sinks with open space below the sink basin allow for wheelchair access and/or chair access for those how have trouble standing. Sink height is important when considering wheelchair accessibility so that a seated person can access the sink basin and mirror with ease.
NO THRESHOLD SHOWER
Most shower falls happen when lifting a leg over the tub wall to exit the shower. Although the typical tub side is only 19” it may be a difficult task for the elderly or injured.
Accessible (ADA-compliant) Bathroom
SHOWER SEAT
When you have trouble showering comfortably, shower seats can change your life. People with a limited range of motion can shower more efficiently and those dealing with infirmity can relax and enjoy showers more than ever.
Accessibility products allow people to live independent lives into their senior years. They also allow those who are living with disabilities to maintain normal daily routines and increase their quality of life. Rocket Rooter can help with our complete line of ADA-compliant accessible bathroom accessories.