Information on Grab Bars for Residential Use
When most people think about grab bars they envision those heavy-duty, metal units that you see in hospitals and nursing care facilities. That view is outdated!
Grab bars do not have to be unattractive. Remodeling your bathroom for accessibility isn’t all about style but you want a place that doesn’t scream utilitarian either. Accessories that promote both luxury and safety are becoming very popular whether you are talking about towel warmers or decorative grab bars.
Grab bars were once seen solely as devices for the elderly or infirmed, but today we are seeing a demand for bath safety products for all ages, as people become more safety conscious. The idea of Universal Design is being viewed by the Baby Boomer generation as a way to increase both comfort and safety, and look good while doing it. A variety of grab bar colors, shapes, sizes and textures are available to complement any bathroom décor.
When shopping for grab bars and rails look for units that have secure mounting hardware. Your primary concern should be in selecting something that is durable, strong, and non-slip. Your grab bars should also be fire- and electricity-safe.
Grab Bars for the Bathtub and Shower
Before you start looking into color, shape, size and textures, think about what kind of grab bar meets your personal needs. These needs should be determined by the type and level of disability of the individual user. If you are at risk for falling while stepping over the rim of the bathtub you will want to install a vertical grab bar to provide a stable hand hold. Wheelchair users will need bars on all three of the enclosing walls to make transfers as safe as possible.
Walking people may choose to sit while showering. Some people like a vertical grab bar under the control panel to serve as a balance point while leaning forward from the shower chair, as well as a gripping surface when entering or exiting the stall. It would also be helpful for standing people to help them maintain their balance.
A roll-in shower calls for three horizontal bars on all three walls. Some people also like vertical bars on the side walls or next to the controls for maintaining balance.
Grab Bars for the Toilet
Grab bars for the toilet are another recommended safety feature. People who walk with difficulty and have trouble getting up and down will find grab bars very helpful.
Two grab bars are recommended in the toilet area. One grab bar should be installed on the wall beside the toilet and the other on the wall behind it, for transferring on and off the toilet and for maintaining balance while seated. Seat mounted grab bars go one step further, if an arm-rest on both sides of the seat is required. Choose a bar style with 1 ¼ to 1 ½ inch diameter that fits comfortably between your fingers and install the bar 1 ½ inches from the wall with anchors that will support at least 250 pounds.
Are all grab bars the same?
Basically you will find grab bars that are stationary and grab bars that fold-up. Grab bars that are mounted permanently to the wall are called stationary. Grab bars that fold-up or down or rotate to pivot out of the way offer support only when you need it.
Some manufacturers offer matching grab bar accessories in different colors and styles to match existing fixtures so that you can coordinate your shower seats, towel bars and related items.
Decorative grab bars are becoming very popular and it is possible to find matching or complementary hardware for almost any design. The attraction of safety accessories is a reflection of our aging but style conscious population.
Grab bars are a boon to everyone, even when strength or agility is not an issue. Having something secure to hold onto for balance and stability is a good idea for everyone.
Further
Reading:
The Accessible Home
by Creative Publishing International
Remodeling for Easy Access Living by Rick Peters
Home Improvement Ideas Blog | Remodeling
and Universal Design Articles