by Jon Pearce | 29th Mar, 2023 | Home
Your home is your haven. It’s somewhere you want to feel safe and secure. That being said, there are a few potential hazards in and around the home. As you’re more prone to accidents and injuries as you age, it’s essential to ensure your home is safe and carry out some checks.
Fortunately, there are ways you can update your home to make it suit a range of medical concerns and mobility issues. In this article, we’ll share the best home safety tips to keep you or a loved one safe at home.
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- Bathroom Health and Safety Tips
- Living Space Health and Safety Tips
- Hygiene Tips and Best Practices for Your Home
- Kitchen Home Safety Checklist
Bathroom Health and Safety
Make your bathroom safer with the below upgrades to minimise the chances of falls and injuries.
1. Attach grab bars
Add these to the wall near the toilet and in the shower/bath to provide support when you’re washing or lifting yourself off the toilet. Grab bars enable you to thoroughly clean yourself without any concerns about stability.
2. Regulate water temperature
Scalding water can be dangerous, as you have reduced reaction times and possible sensory impairments when you age. Ensure the shower and tap temperature doesn’t exceed 44°C if you or a loved one is vulnerable and showers alone.
3. Install a shower chair or walk-in shower
If you or a loved one experiences balance issues, a shower chair makes personal hygiene more attainable without the fear of falling over.
These chairs are specifically designed with non-slip tips on the feet to prevent sliding around when exposed to water. Shower chairs are ideal for those with mobility and strength problems and help you to maintain proper hygiene.
You might also want to consider a walk-in shower. This is because these make bathing far safer than regular showers and also reduce anxieties for people who have limited mobility since they provide much more support with such features as in-built grab rails and slip-resistant surfaces.
4. Changing your bath to a walk-in bath
A traditional bathtub is not always the best option, especially for the elderly or those with limited mobility. Accessibility can often be difficult due to the height and ergonomics of the tub, as well as a lack of a door to enter and exit.
This is where walk-in bath can be hugely beneficial. Walk-in baths have doors that allow for easy entry and exit when taking a bath, which can prevent accidents from taking place. Aside from the ease of accessibility, walk-in baths offer a much more supportive design that include bespoke optional additions depending on the requirements of your loved one.
Also when taking a bath, keep in mind that posture is also very important. Due to a walk-in bath’s more upright design, you sit straighter, keeping your back in a better position for long-term use.
5. Add a raised toilet seat
Traditional toilet seats can make going to the bathroom difficult since they cause you to lower yourself to a seated position. Raised toilet seats are available at various heights—such as three inches higher—making it easier to pull yourself up. Some toilet seats feature arms, making it even more helpful to lower and lift yourself and avoid injury.
6. Upgrade lighting and doors
Falls in the bathroom are quite common as you age, as you’re more prone to slipping on water. Consider switching to a bathroom door that opens outwards so a loved one can easily access the room in the event of a fall.
Additionally, vision can worsen with age, so those trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night can be a safety hazard. However, adding sensor lights along the hallway and in the bathroom ensure the environment is well-lit to eradicate bumping into furniture or falling.
Living Space Health and Safety
7. Take furniture shape and details into consideration
Cabinets and tables can have sharp corners. Switch to furniture that’s rounded to have less of an impact if you bump into them. You can also try upgrading to round knobs to alleviate the effects of arthritis when you’re pulling drawers open.
8. Choose practical furniture
- When looking for sofas and chairs, opt for ones that are suitable for the elderly, such as armchairs, and avoid sofas that sink too low and make it difficult to get up.
- For storage solutions, consider ones that are easily reachable (under-the-bed storage involves bending down and twisting, which might not be suitable for an elderly home). Instead, drawers that easily glide out avoid twisting and pulling.
- All furniture should be sturdy and not too light that it’ll easily fall over, though not too heavy that it could crush you if it fell on you.
- A firm mattress might be a better alternative to a softer one, as it provides more support, helps to align the spine and can make it easier to get out of bed.
9. Avoid rugs and clutter
One of the best home safety tips to make your home a hazard-free space is to eliminate any objects that could encourage falls. Remove rugs in the living space and secure any carpet edges with tape to make it less likely you’ll trip over them.
Speaking of the floor, have a home for objects to avoid leaving clutter on the floor. Putting things away means there’s more floor space and fewer items to trip over.
10. Make the space accessible
Making items easily accessible in the living space is paramount to eliminating the need to bend down and reach up high, which helps to reduce the chances of falls. For example, keep objects at waist height and store everyday objects within easy reach. A grabber might be investible to help you reach things without stretching.
Another benefit of an accessible home is having the independence to complete tasks and reach things without requiring assistance.
11. Wear a personal alarm
If you live alone and are concerned about your safety if you fall, wear a personal alarm in the form of a necklace. These devices alert loved ones or carers at the press of a button and are ideal if you’re in a situation where you can’t get out of yourself and don’t have a phone to hand.
Hygiene and Best Practices for Your Home
12. Change clothes daily
Clothes can harbour bacteria if left unclean, which can lead to skin infections and bad odour. Avoid the spread of germs by changing into fresh underwear daily.
13. Invest in disinfectant sprays
Keeping a home clean can be difficult if you have limited mobility. But you can improve home and personal hygiene by wiping down items and surfaces you use daily with an antibacterial spray. Spritz door handles, taps and kitchen surfaces.
14. Buy helpful hygiene aids
There are many gizmos and products available that can aid personal and home hygiene for the elderly. Stock up on no-rinse wipes and sprays and long-handled brushes that enable you to keep surfaces quickly and without having to bend down.
15. Keep emergency contacts on speed dial
It’s important you have access to contact a loved one instantly if you’re in need. If you or a loved one has memory issues, affix speed dial numbers onto your phone to provide peace of mind.
16. Wear appropriate footwear around the house
Poor-fitting slippers can pose a fall risk if you have mobility issues. Stick to slippers that fit properly and have an adequate grip on the sole, making you less likely to slip on wooden flooring.
17. Set the boiler to a timer
Stay warm throughout the day, especially during winter, by setting the boiler to an appropriate temperature that switches on and off automatically throughout the day. A cold environment can contribute to sore joints and restrict movement.
18. Limit access to chemicals and dangerous substances
If a loved one has dementia, remove anything hazardous that could cause an accident, such as electrical equipment or chemicals. Removing them completely can prevent any life-threatening accidents.
If applicable, store medication out of the way and invest in a pill dispenser to prevent taking too much and act as a daily reminder.
19. Install light sensors
Automatic light sensors ensure a home is well-lit without you or a loved one having to press on light switches, especially for those with dementia.
20. Replace handles on taps
Make it comfortable to turn on and off a tap by updating to ergonomic, comfortable handles. You may even wish to upgrade to automatic water dispensers to prevent having to turn the tap at all.
21. Check alarm systems
It’s important that you have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed in a home and that they’re checked often. If you or a relative has reduced hearing, position alarms in areas that are used regularly, such as bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens. Some alarm systems also have flashing lights to alert you of danger.
22. Keep a lamp next to the bed
This provides easy access to light if you need to use the toilet in the middle of the night.
23. Install a stairlift
If you live in a home with at least two stories, a stairlift can provide extra assistance if you have trouble walking up and down the stairs.
24. Replace doors with safety aspects
Update doors with a self-locking mechanism should you or a loved one forget to lock the door.
25. Store all electronics appropriately
Keep devices away from water to prevent electric shocks.
26. Prevent common kitchen hazards
Here’s a home safety checklist for the kitchen
- Keep a first-aid kit with plasters, bandages and antiseptic cream
- Sharpen knives; blunt blades require more work and are more dangerous
- Avoid loose-fitting clothing to prevent a fire hazard
- Always wear oven gloves when removing hot food
- Don’t face pan handles outwards on the hob, as you could knock them
Hopefully, these home safety tips will help you create a home where you feel safe. Your well-being is hugely important, and taking steps to make your life easier (and safer) can have a huge impact on your physical and mental health.
by mobilityplus | 19th Mar, 2023 | Walk-in baths
Walk in baths are the ideal solution to transform your bathroom with safety and comfort. If you’re considering a walk-in bath, here are the essential things to know before taking the next step.
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- Additional features make it safer
- Mobility Plus products are sealed with a lifetime warranty
- Look at ways to make your bathroom luxurious
- Cater for your future and all of your family
- Think about how to maximise your bathroom space
Additional features make it safer
As the bathroom can get quickly wet and slippery, it’s no surprise that it’s prone to falls and injuries. As we get older, our mobility becomes more limited, which makes accidents more common. In fact, over the age of 65, roughly one in three individuals fall every year.
To limit the chances of injuries, you don’t have to avoid bathing or risk your welfare in a non-specialised bathroom. You can keep your independence and your confidence with a walk-in bath, and especially one with added safety features.
The walk-in baths at Mobility Plus feature low entry access and wide opening doors, so if you have trouble lifting your legs, you can still enjoy the benefits of a regular bath but now with extra protection.
Look to add a grab rail feature, like in the Derwent deep soak walk-in bath, to provide safety and support when you’re getting in and out of the bath.
Mobility Plus products are sealed with a lifetime warranty
Searching for the perfect walk-in bath, it’s important to know you’re investing in a high-quality product that is durable and long lasting. Damage can occur over time, and it’s reassuring to have a product that keeps you protected.
At Mobility Plus, we want your bathing experience to be the best it possibly can, which is why we’re invested in creating high-quality products that put your comfort and safety first. We pride ourselves in offering you the perfect solution that makes your life easier. So, for an extra seal of satisfaction, all our Mobility Plus products come with a Lifetime Warranty. Added protection and complete peace of mind with every comfortable bathe.
Look at ways to make your bathroom luxurious
Creating a luxurious bathroom doesn’t have to be expensive. There are walk-in bath features that can transform your bathing experience. There is Chromotherapy and a Hydrotherapy spa system options in the Hampton Elite modern walk-in bath, that will make your bathroom a relaxing place you’ll never want to leave.
These added features will turn your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary without having to spend a fortune. The luxury systems promote balance and healing and will help you to unwind in comfort.
Cater for your future and all of your family
When thinking about installing a walk-in bath in your home, you can get the most out of your money by looking ahead to yours and your family’s future. Even though accessing your bathroom might not be a problem for you now, accommodating to those future needs today will save you time, energy and money.
With integrated seats featuring contoured backs, easy access walk-in baths help keep injuries to a minimum with maximum comfort
Think about how to maximise your bathroom space
When it comes to decorating your bathroom, many people overlook a bath because they think they’re large and impractical, especially for smaller bathrooms. Yet, this isn’t always the case.
If you’re limited on space, there are compact walk-in baths to choose from that will maximise your space whilst still delivering optimum practical benefits. A smaller bathtub, like the Hampton low entry bath, is a useful addition to give you more space for storage and any design features, like a stool.
Walk-in baths are an investment you won’t regret. You don’t have to take our word for it, discover what some of our customers are saying about their new bathroom here.
by Jon Pearce | 9th Mar, 2023 | Health
Bathrooms are a place to relax and unwind. But despite being a peaceful haven, bathrooms have a few hazards we must watch out for. Floors and bathtubs can become wet and slippery, and accidents can happen.
A room that typically features hard styles of flooring, such as tiles, and a bathroom is a place where slips and falls can easily occur, especially if surfaces are wet and slippery.
According to the National Institute on Aging, more than one in four people over the age of 65 falls each year and almost 80% of falls in the home occur in the bathroom. It isn’t just older people who need to be mindful of bathroom safety; as a room that features more hard surfaces than most, we all should be aware of the potential for injury in this area.
Fortunately, there are a few steps and modifications that you can take to reduce the risk of bathroom hazards for both seniors and other adults or children in your home.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss our top tips for improving your bathroom health and safety so you can relax knowing that your bathroom is a safe space for your family.
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- Installing grab bars
- Use non-slip mats, and rugs
- Install flooring with non-slip surfaces
- Install a shower bench or chair
- Install an elevated toilet seat
- Install a walk-in shower or bathtub
- Remove clutter and keep essential items within reach
- Add easy turn taps
1. Installing grab bars
Grab bars are one of the simplest and most effective ways to make a bathroom safer, especially for seniors or anyone with disability bathing needs. Grab bars are bars that provide support and stability in the bathroom.
Grab rail positions are important and can be placed in different areas of your bathroom, such as in your shower or bath or beside your toilet, to help get up and down safely and in a controlled manner.
There is a range of different grab bars available with different finishes. You can choose a design that not only meets your practical needs but also fits with the design of your bathroom. You can also choose the level of grip you require with your grab bar.
Grab bars are a great safety feature as you can place them in the area you need them most, so you or your family member will have extra stability in those tougher to navigate areas. Find out more about grab bars.
2. Use non-slip mats, and rugs
Slips and falls are much more likely to happen on wet surfaces (Health and Safety Executive). This is why using non-slip rugs and mats in your bathroom is so important. Having a bathroom mat in locations such as beside your shower and bath, and near your toilet can help prevent excess water from causing your floor to become slippery.
Try to choose mats and rugs with an anti-slip backing or consider a mat with suction cups on the underside. This will help grip your bathroom floor more securely, so you’ll have a mat you can dry your feet on after showering and one that will stay securely in place.
You can also get rubberised mats for inside your shower and bath. These mats are designed to be waterproof, and they help prevent accidents by adding a grip to the base of your shower and bathtub.
3. Install flooring with non-slip surfaces
The type of flooring you use in your bathroom can also improve your safety. To reduce the risk of falls, you should opt for flooring with a non-slip finish. There are many different options for bathroom flooring that provide extra grip and stability, such as vinyl or rubber flooring.
These materials are designed to be more robust and water resistant than other forms of flooring, so they can help prevent accidents and make your bathroom a safer environment.
4. Install a shower bench or chair
Standing for extended periods can be difficult for elderly people, or those who have difficulty with mobility, especially in a shower or wet room. You can provide a safe, comfortable place to sit while showering by installing a shower bench or chair.
Choose a sturdy chair or bench that suits the user’s weight and needs. Choosing a model with a backrest and armrest can also provide additional stability and support for the user.
5. Install an elevated toilet seat
Sitting down and standing up from a low toilet can cause issues for seniors or people with mobility issues.
High toilet seats can help make the process of getting on and off the toilet by reducing the distance you need to lower yourself. There is a range of options so you can choose the one that best suits the user’s needs.
6. Install a walk-in shower or bathtub
Refurbishing your bathroom can be a great way to bring your bath and shower up to standard to meet you or your loved one’s changing needs. Walk-in showers and bathtubs are designed to provide a comfortable and safe experience when bathing.
Walk-in showers come with a wide door, allowing users to walk in easily. They also have non-slip surfaces, and some have a built-in seat for extra support.
Walk-in baths are also becoming increasingly popular as they make bathing easier to manage for those with mobility issues; they feature a door to allow easy access to the bath and a raised seat to make getting in and out as easy as possible.
7. Remove clutter and keep essential items within reach
This tip is simple yet effective. Clutter can make it harder to move around the bathroom and increase the risk of tripping. Removing unnecessary items from the bathroom on a regular basis or adding additional storage to ensure the bathroom is always clean and tidy can help reduce risk.
Solutions such as additional shelving can ensure that essentials like soap, shampoo and conditioner are always within reach, so no bending down or stretching is required to get these items. Additionally, keeping floors and surfaces clean can ensure that there is no residue from bathing products left over, which could cause slips or falls.
8. Add easy turn taps
Taps with long levers and smooth actions are a great modification to make use easier for seniors or anyone with conditions such as arthritis that could affect mobility. Easy turn taps can give you more control and make turning on and off the tap smoother, allowing for easier control of temperature and water flow
These are just a few of the modifications you can make to your bathroom to ensure it is as safe and comfortable as possible. Taking extra care when designing or renovating your bathroom will give you peace of mind knowing that you or your loved one’s safety is taken care of.
With these tips at hand, your bathroom can be a safe place where you can bathe and wash without the worry of potential slips and falls. These features offer safety and security and thanks to the wide range available, you can tailor your bathroom modifications to meet individual needs and even choose options that are not only practical but look fantastic too.
by Jon Pearce | 31st Jan, 2023 | Walk-in showers
Are you keen to maximise the space you have in your bathroom? Do you have mobility issues making it difficult to get in and out of the bath safely? Well, have you ever thought about replacing the bath with a walk-in shower instead?
Many homeowners of all ages and abilities choose to transform their bathroom space. This improves their comfort and ease by swapping their baths for walk-in showers.
While, of course, it can feel great to have a long soak and relax in the bath. But in reality, how many of us find the time to do it? If your mobility has declined in recent years, or as you’re getting older, you expect it might, then opting for a hassle-free walk-in shower is the most obvious option. Not to mention that showers are a much quicker and more efficient way to wash.
Not sure if changing your bath to a walk-in shower will work for your home and your lifestyle? Check out these seven reasons why you should swap to a walk-in shower and revolutionise your bathroom.
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- They allow you to reclaim space in your bathroom
- Showers offer increased accessibility for everyone
- It’s a modern and stylish addition to your home
- They can add to your home’s value
- Showers are more water and cost-efficient
- They’re suitable for bathrooms of all sizes
- Showers are much easier to clean
1. They allow you to reclaim space in your bathroom
One of the most popular reasons people decide to replace their bath with a walk-in shower is the space that it can free up. In many cases, the bathroom may be the smallest room in your home. Therefore, you must make the most of the space you have. If you have a bath in your bathroom, then it is likely taking up a lot of space that could be used in other ways. Having a walk-in shower makes your bathroom feel more open and spacious.
This is an even better use of the space in your bathroom if you don’t use your bath often and prefer to shower instead.
2. Showers offer increased accessibility for everyone
Whether you’re struggling with mobility issues or not, showers are a much simpler and more straightforward way to wash than a bath. Therefore, if you are considering changing your bath with a walk-in shower, then you should consider how much easier they are to use.
Not only are showers a lot more accessible and easier to get in and out of, but there are fewer risks attached than when climbing into the bath. There are so many more options regarding sizes and designs. You can choose any kind of shower you like with walk-in showers and wet rooms.
You can even add accessories such as handrails and shower chairs to make them even easier for you to navigate. They’re an especially great option if you are keen to continue living independently as you get older. Replacing the bath with a walk-in shower is a small change to your home that can make a considerable difference.
3. It’s a modern and stylish addition to your home
It is always advisable to keep making changes and additions to your home in order to improve it. From maintenance and DIY projects to modernisations such as getting a new bath or shower. The great thing about wet rooms and walk-in showers is that they are available in a range of bathroom designs. So whatever your taste, you will find the right style for your home.
Many people make the mistake of assuming that wet rooms can only come with tiled floors. While this isn’t always the case, you can still introduce a modern look to tiles with a bright colour or stylish pattern. Swapping your bath with a walk-in shower is a great way to add something new to your home while maintaining a touch of your own taste and personality.
4. They can add to your home’s value
When making adjustments and improvements to your home, you will likely be keen to know what impact it has on your home’s value. While some people worry that installing a wet room may devalue a home, adding a walk-in shower to your bathroom can add value.
Generally, wet rooms are considered to be found in most high-end homes and so is a desirable feature that many people look for when searching for a new home.
For many people that are searching for their forever home, they are keen to find somewhere that can offer longevity. And a walk-in shower is a great way to future-proof a home for the years to come.
5. Showers are more water and cost-efficient
Another great advantage to replacing your bath with a walk-in shower is that showers are better for the environment and use less water. By being able to jump straight into the shower, you won’t have to waste time waiting for the bath to fill up with water.
Instead, a shower means that you will use less water and less electricity and, as a result, cost you less money. So not only does a walk-in shower make it a lot quicker and easier to wash, but it also improves your carbon footprint. And it’s kinder on your bank balance!
6. They’re suitable for bathrooms of all sizes
Keen to replace your bath with a walk-in shower but worried that your bathroom is too small? Many people make the mistake of assuming that they don’t have the space required to make this kind of adjustment. But in reality, showers are a much better option if you have less space to work with.
If you only have a small bathroom, then your bathtub likely takes up a considerable amount of space. Therefore, by swapping it for a walk-in shower you can minimise the amount of space that it takes up. With a walk-in shower, there is no need for any bulky shower doors or shower trays that may take up more space. Instead, you can simply install a shower screen that prevents everything from getting wet. If you have a small bathroom and would like to have more space to enjoy, then a walk-in shower is the best way to achieve it.
7. Showers are much easier to clean
Nobody enjoys cleaning the bathroom but believe us when we tell you that cleaning your shower is a whole lot easier than cleaning your bath. This is in fact, one of the biggest advantages of installing a walk-in shower, especially if you’re keen to enjoy independent living for as many years as possible.
Without the hassle of shower trays and screens, walk-in showers take a lot less work to clean and you can still use the same bathroom cleaning products that you usually would. If you choose to get a shower seat installed, then you can even have a sit down while you’re cleaning. Sounds good, right?
Getting a brand new walk-in shower may seem like a big step to take when it comes to improving your bathroom. But you may be surprised at the huge difference such a small change can make. Whether you want to make life at home a little easier now or you’re thinking about maintaining your independence for as long as possible in the future, replacing your bath with a walk-in shower has a range of benefits.
by mobilityplus | 16th Dec, 2022 | Bathroom, Blog
When it comes to enjoying a nice warm bath, personal safety should always be a priority – especially for seniors or anyone with mobility issues. Bathtub railings are designed to help maintain that safety, providing stability and balance as you enter and exit a bathtub, walk-in bath or even a walk-in shower, so you can relax knowing that you have the support you need.
Bathtub railings, also known as grab bars, are bars that mount to the side of a bathtub and allow for easy access. Usually made from stainless steel or plastic, these bathroom safety rails can be installed on walls or floors and provide excellent stability for anyone getting in or out of the bathtub. These railings make a great addition to a bathroom to increase safety.
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Bathrooms traditionally have tiled or hard flooring. Due to the nature of the room, surfaces can sometimes become slippery when wet, making them a particularly dangerous place to fall. The hard flooring could cause injury, which is why we believe that prevention should always be prioritised regarding personal safety. Studies (source) have found that 60% of the patients presenting in the emergency department are people who are aged 65 and over. It has also been shown that 80% of falls in the home occur in the bathroom, so it is essential that these areas are made as safe as possible.
The good news is that many home amendments can be made to make your bathroom a safe space everyone can enjoy. Adding a bathmat close to baths or showers can help keep your feet dry to prevent slipping. Additionally, adding anti-slip stickers or mats to your bath or shower can provide an extra grip that will help reduce the risk of slips or falls. However, when it comes to bathing, adding railings to the areas surrounding your bath will give you the best support to make manoeuvring yourself in and out of your bath as smooth and steady as possible.
- What types of bath railing are available?
- How your bath railings will look in your bathroom
- Things to consider when you’re choosing a bath handrail
- Do bathtub hand railings improve safety?
What types of bath railing are available?
When it comes to bath railings, there is a wide range on the market.
Wall-mounted rails
Wall-mounted rails are an excellent option for people looking to make some safety modifications to their homes. These rails offer excellent stability and are usually secured directly into your bathroom walls with screws or adhesive.
When it comes to wall-mounted rails, how they are installed can change how they can be used;
- You can use a horizontal rail to push upwards.
- You can use a vertical rail to pull upwards.
- A diagonal rail can be used for both pushing and pulling.
Wall-mounted rails come in a variety of styles. These rails can be made straight, or some types have a bend, a curve, or angled styles, which can provide different grab points for different ways of manoeuvring yourself while you’re in the bath.
Floor fixed rails
Floor-mounted rails are a great alternative to wall-mounted rails, especially for areas where a wall is not close enough to provide the support you need. These are similar to wall-mounted rails in that they are fixed into your floor to give you the needed stability.
Rails that attach to your bath
Rails that attach to your bath are a great option where wall-mounted or floor-fixed rails aren’t suitable. Perhaps you’re moving house and don’t want to modify your bathroom permanently, or you’re away for a few weeks and want an option that can come with you. Railings that can attach to your bath can help provide the flexibility you need on the go or in your home.
How your bath railings will look in your bathroom
While personal safety is your top priority, that doesn’t mean that you can’t or shouldn’t consider how your bathtub railing will look. Due to the extensive range of bath railings available, you will be able to find a bath railing that meets
all of your mobility needs while looking aesthetically pleasing and fitting in with the rest of your bathroom decor. Your bathroom should feel like a safe space that you have curated and tailored to meet your needs, and with a range of styles and finishes, you’ll be able to find a bath railing that ticks all the necessary boxes and then more!
Bathtub handrail finishes that you can choose from
- Chrome
- Plastic
- Slip-resistant
- High contrast – This option is excellent for accommodating visual impairments.
Things to consider when you’re choosing a bath handrail
As much as it’s nice to have something that looks nice in your bathroom when it comes to safe bathing, practicality must be a priority. Here are some of the practical things you will need to consider when choosing a handrail:
- How strong is the handrail? Consider what weight your handrail will need to bear, and make sure you check the product description to make sure your rail can meet your needs.
- Grip – Is the handrail material suitable for the bathroom, and does it provide the necessary grip required when wet?
- Is the handrail style the right choice to give you the comfort you need? Consider the placement of your handrail before you commit to a purchase. Make sure you have a clear idea of where you will need it to be positioned to give you the helping hand you need.
Disability applications
Baths with grab rails aren’t just fantastic for seniors; they also provide massive benefits to people who have disabilities that need a little support when it comes to bathing. Handrails are a perfect bathroom modification for anyone who has or is caring for someone with a disability, particularly if the disability affects mobility or vision.
Accessories for bath railings
The range of bath railings available means that you’ll find one that suits you easily. However, you can also get accessories for your bath handrail to make it an even better fit for you and your bathroom. There are styles of handrails that are entirely non-slip; however, you can also buy non-slip covers that can be attached to a particular part of your rail. Having this as a removable option can be beneficial if your bath has multiple users, as while a non-slip surface can give extra grip, it can sometimes be harsh on sensitive skin.
Do bathtub hand railings improve safety?
Senior Health 365 describes handrails as being ‘necessary, not optional, and we agree. Installing a bath handrail can make bathing safer for older people by providing an extra point of stability that can help balance when getting in and out of the bath. It also offers increased safety while in the bath, giving them something to grab onto if they become unstable. Installing rails in your bathroom is a simple modification that can yield such great benefits. Not only for preventing serious accidents but even for making day-to-day mobility that bit easier.
So, yes, bathtub hand railings do improve safety and are recommended by the NHS for those who have mobility issues or a disability.
The team at Mobility Plus are here to help and answer any questions you may have about whether you need a bathtub handrail with your walk-in bath. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can work with you to make your bathroom an enjoyable space safe for all to use.
by Jon Pearce | 9th Dec, 2022 | Cancer Research
Staff at Mobility Plus have this year taken part in Christmas Jumper Day to raise funds for both Save the Children and our charity partner Cancer Research UK.
I think you’ll agree that they all looked extremely festive in their various knitwear and with the UK facing some extremely cold weather, the jumpers also helped everybody stay warm!
Some of the Mobility Plus team showing off their Christmas Jumpers
The team have decided to support two charities, with the UK government promising to double every £2 donation to Save the Children, they were chosen alongside our long-term partner Cancer Research UK.
Both charities do outstanding work and Mobility Plus are very happy to continue supporting them.
Click here to read more about how Mobility Plus supports CRUK’s life saving research.
