As people age, limited mobility frequently becomes a problem. Stiff joints, weaker muscles, and loss of balance are common problems that can make everyday tasks much more difficult. The bathroom in particular is one room that presents numerous hazards for those with limited mobility. Keep reading to learn about a few simple upgrades that can make your bathroom safer.

Walk-In Tubs

If you’re able-bodied, you probably don’t give much thought to the balance and strength required to climb in and out of a tub. But stepping over that high ledge—especially when the tub is wet and slippery—can be difficult and dangerous for elderly individuals with mobility issues. Walk-in tubs present a much safer option by allowing you to open a water-tight door to step inside the tub. You can then fill it with water, bathe, drain it, and open the door to step safely out again.

This is a much safer option than trying to climb in and out of the tub unassisted. You can even purchase a walk-in tub-shower combination if you have a tub-shower combo already in your home and want to keep it that way. The walk-in option is still available to you to improve the safety of this bathroom fixture.

Grab Handles and Safety Bars

Often, slipping and tripping hazards can be virtually eliminated by the simple use of grab handles and safety bars. These incredibly basic devices can be installed beside the tub, shower, toilet, and in any other location where a little extra support might be necessary. There are even models that can be installed without drilling into your walls. Place these throughout your bathroom to make it a much safer place.

Shower Seats

If you prefer the shower to the tub, it’s important to consider the safety issues associated with a shower. Showering requires you to stand on a slippery surface while bending, twisting, tipping back your head, and potentially even standing on one foot to tend to your hygiene needs. These potential hazards are easily negated, however, by installing a shower seat. This can be purchased and simply set inside your current shower stall to provide a safe, secure seat to use while showering.

These dangers are also negated if you have a walk-in tub-shower combination, as the seat will be built into the walk-in upgrade.

Limited mobility doesn’t have to make you give up your independence in the bathroom. With simple upgrades like walk-in tubs, safety bars, and shower seats, tending to your personal needs in the bathroom can be safer and easier for you again.