CASE STUDY
REMODELING A BATHROOM for an AGING PARENT
OVERVIEW
A lady was searching on the internet for a bathroom remodeler. She browsed our website and scheduled an appointment to meet with us in our showroom. She discussed her vision and details of the remodel she wanted for her father who was handicapped and lived alone. She highlighted the importance of making the bathroom “senior-friendly” and more accessible for wheelchair access. Safety was a main concern in redesigning his master bathroom so that he would not trip or fall when independently going about his daily routine.
CHALLENGE
The biggest challenge was convincing her father that the renovation was needed. His thinking was everything was in working order and he was able to manage on his own with the way things were without any problems.
SOLUTION
After some convincing, daughter and father reached a workable agreement, designs were reviewed and approved, and we went to work balancing functionality, accessibility and style to accommodate the father’s specific needs.
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BEFORE: A TRADITIONAL TUB/SHOWER
Before the remodel: While livable, the traditional tub/shower was not handicap accessible. It had high sides that made it hard to access and had outdated fixtures that were difficult to turn on and off.
AFTER: A WIDER, EASY ACCESS SHOWER
After the remodel: Plumbing locations were kept in place. The existing tub/shower was revamped into a curb-less shower. The entire flooring was removed along with all the joists underneath it. The floor was recessed and reframed so that the pitch allowed for water to flow into the drain. A wider (34”) curb-less entry way allowed for easy wheelchair access and a non-slip flooring was installed to avoid slipping. A bench, at wheelchair height and built into the shower, provided seating and an easy transfer from the wheelchair. Senior-friendly, lever-faucet fixtures were incorporated into the shower and sink area to make it easier to turn on and regulate the water flow. A temperature regulator on the shower value was added to prevent extra hot water surges. And an additional hand-held shower head was also added.
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BEFORE: OUTDATED CABINETS
Storage and reach were limited due to the style and height of the cabinets.
AFTER: UPDATED OPEN STYLE VANITY
A lowered height vanity with removable doors and shelves was installed which made the cabinetry adaptable for easy access now and for future needs.
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BEFORE: STANDARD TOILET AND ABSENCE OF GRAB BARS
A traditional height toilet made it hard to transfer from the wheelchair to the commode. There were no safety bars in any area of the bathroom.
AFTER: SAFE, COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT
Safety (grab) bars were installed by the entryway to the shower and alongside the comfort height toilet which helped with transfer and balance going from place to place.
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BEFORE: LIGHTING
There was one overhead ceiling light in the center of the bathroom and one small light over the vanity. The lack of efficient lighting created shadows and glare which made it hard to see.
AFTER: LIGHTING
Layers of lights were added to assure an even distribution of lighting throughout the bathroom. Overhead recessed lighting was placed at both ends of the shower. Vanity lights were placed along the lower sides of the mirror (vs. overhead) which made it easier on the eyes and easier to reach for maintenance (replacing bulbs). The ambient and task lighting brightened the bathroom and cut down on the glare. Automatic night lights were installed between the bathroom and bedroom and in the bathroom area.
CONCLUSION
The remodel was successful! It accomplished all the goals while addressing all the concerns. The remodel created a re-imagined bathroom where the father can independently navigate while giving his daughter peace of mind.
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