Bathroom grab bars for elderly are devices which are so designed so as to help in the maintenance of balance, hold weight as you manoeuvre, or even grab onto just in case you fall or slip while in the bathroom. Grab bars for bathrooms can also be utilized by caregivers so as to give the elderly and invalids the kind of support that they need. This can help as one climbs or if they fall or slip.
Grab bars are an important addition to any home, especially where there is an invalid or an elderly person. They can also prove very helpful within a nursing home or home for the elderly setting.
The grab bar should be designed in such a way that it can handle sudden impacts and high loads. There are some jurisdictions that specify the kind of loads that such bar is supposed to bear within a building. Grab bars can be mounted on walls or on stud walls.
A grab bar can be made of composites, fiberglass, plastic, or metal. It is important for grab bars meant for the bathroom to be water-proof and rust free. A grab bar can save a life and is, therefore, an important installation.
Why bathrooms are dangerous for the elderly?
Bathrooms can be a very dangerous place, especially for elderly people. This is a fact that should never be taken lightly. Sometimes, bathrooms are fitted into very tight spaces and this makes them some of the hardest places that the elderly can try to maneuver.
Also, there are slippery, surfaces that are made, even worse because of water and soap. This means that there are many hazards within the bathroom and this makes it a very dangerous place not only for seniors but for everyone as well.
It is very easy to stumble and then fall within the bathroom. The risk of this happening is increased when a person has poor strength in the muscle as well as balance.
Advantages of bathroom grab bars for the elderly:
- They give the elderly stability
- They give the extra support that is needed for the elderly to lift themselves from a toilet
- They lessen fatigue when one is in a standing position
- They ensure safety in the dangerous bathroom environment
- They reduce the incidence of falls and the serious injuries that can result from this
- They allow the elderly to use the bathroom by themselves
- They assist caregivers
Types of bathroom grab bars for elderly?
Bathroom grab bars make this space safe and the risks of falling and slipping are greatly minimized. They can be installed around the bathtub or the shower so as to provide support.
There are different types of bathroom grab bars. The types depend on where the bars can be installed and the way that they are supposed to be installed. They are an essential addition that should be highly considered.
- Straight bathroom safety bars
- Clamp-on tub rail
- Angled grab bar
- Wall to floor
- Suction cup bars
- Flip-up/flip down bars
- Decorative bar
- No drill grab bars
- Floor to ceiling bars
Where to install grab bars on the wall around the bathtub?
The bathtub can be a risky place and therefore you should consider installing some grab bars around that area. You could have a vertical bar just opposite your faucet. At the sidewall, you could install a horizontal bar a make it as long as you possibly can. This bar can be around 30 inches from the floor.
For the shower and bathtub combo, you can make installations that are similar to those of stall shower even though the requirements are not the same. You should still have the vertical bar, but you should have it on the wall opposite to the faucet at the end.
The horizontal bar should also be included but should be lower than 30 inches. The main aim is to have a kind of handrail all around the tub.
How to install bathroom grab bars?
So as to have it done well, you should hire a professional to do it for you. This is someone with the training and experience to do such a thing. Owing to how important the grab bars are, you should not leave anything to chance.
However, if you want to do it yourself, should first ensure that you have all the necessary tools at hand. Hammer, level, drill, as well as drill bits, are some of the things that you should have. You also have to choose the area where you will mount it.
It is important to mark the points where you are supposed to install it and drill holes carefully. Choose high-quality grab bars and make sure that they hold securely for them to serve the purpose for which they are meant.
How I selected the best bathroom grab bars for the elderly:
There are some factors I considered when I was selecting the bars to include in this list. They include:
- Handles: the best bars have adjustable handles which allow one to make adjustments on different positions. A padded armrest in the toilet offers the elderly a more comfortable grip preventing slipping. This is very important where an elderly person is concerned because they will definitely need all the support that they can get.
- Weight: it’s important to check the weight limit. The best rail should be able to handle up to 250 pounds. It is important to consider this when you are making a purchase and you can base it on the weight of the person who will be using it most. Make sure what you are installing is adequate to cater for the needs of the elderly person you have in mind.
- Material: there are many materials that can be used in making the bars. The sturdiest frame is the best under any circumstance.
- The armrest width: the width in between the armrests needs to be considered and you should always choose something that can suit you well.
- Legs: it is always a good thing to buy something that has rubber legs that are skid resistant since they tend to stay put much longer.
The best 10 bathrooms grab bars for elderly
1. Medline Toilet Safety Rails↓
2. Medline Bathtub Safety Grab Bar↓
3. 8732 Home 32-Inches Bathroom Grab Bar↓
4. Drive Medical Stand Alone Toilet Safety Rail↓
5. Moen 30-Inch Flip-Up Bathroom Grab Bar, Stainless (R8960FD)↓
6. Moen LR2308W Home Care 12-Inch Suction Balance Assist Bath Grip, Glacier↓
7. Vive Bathtub Rail – Bathroom Tub Safety Rail for Elderly↓
8. Vive Toilet Rail – Bathroom Safety Frame↓
9. Stander Security Pole & Curve Grab Bar↓
10. Moen R8936P 36-Inch Bathroom Grab Bar, Peened↓
1. Medline Toilet Safety Rails
This is an option that has a safety frame which can be used for the toilet and it is very easy to install and the height can be adjusted. It makes the bathroom so much easier and safer to use.
The fact that the handles can be adjusted means that they can be rotated back so as to allow room for secure and comfortable positions. There are the armrests that are closed cell foam that offer a comfortable and steady grip.
This is a universal option and can accommodate elevated and standard toilet seats. The frame doesn’t have any latex and it is made of aluminum which is very easy to clean and to mount.
This bathroom grab bar gives the elderly the support that they need as they lower or rise from the toilet seat. This is a frame that comes with stability and it is not invasive even when one has mobility or stability issues. It is the perfect addition when someone has just had surgery.
The frame of this grab is created from anodized aluminium tubing that is sturdy and is skid resistant. The legs are also skid resistant and are made of rubber. For comfort, the grip armrests are textured so as to offer great comfort. It is a frame that can support up to 250 pounds.
2. Medline Bathtub Safety Grab Bar
This is a grab bar that comes with a clamp that is step-through incorporated into the design and it, therefore, provides the elderly person with an entry and an exit path that is unobstructed which helps them achieve a better positioning. The rail offers stability so that it becomes easier to get into and out of the tub. It is also an amazing option for person post-surgery.
The bar consists of components that are made of stainless steel and they have pads that are rubber lined so as to protect the bathtub walls. The safety handles can also be adjusted so as to fit a tub that is anywhere between 2.75-6.25 inches. This grab bar installation doesn’t require any kind of tools so as to install.
The handgrip is a bi-level one and it is able to offer maximum safety and flexibility. It can handle a capacity of up to 250 pounds. The fact that the grip is non-slip means that bathing becomes comfortable and safer while the handle offers great stability.
This is a very durable option, especially because it has a coated steel design. This means that with proper installation, you will not need to replace it every now and then.
3. 8732 Home 32-Inches Bathroom Grab Bar
This is a grab bar that is 32 inches and can support a maximum of 500 pounds. Its design is made in such a way that you can install it very easily. The construction is stainless steel which makes it very durable. This is one of the grab bars available in the market that is within ADA specifications. The best thing is that it has a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
The bathroom grab bar allows you to have a steady and secure time while using the bathroom regardless of your particular need. It is an ideal choice for the toilet, the shower or bath. The fact that it has a high weight limit means that it can offer great support.
You can install at different angles depending on what is needed. This is a bar that is durable and it can go with different kinds of décor within the bathroom.
Moen grab bars are stylish, reliable and durable too. The diameter is around 1.5 inches, meaning that all hand sizes can be accommodated safely. It can be used in the bathtub, shower, or toilet. The end covers are very stylish and they cover adequately concealing any mounting hardware that is used to give that clean and seamless look.
4. Drive Medical Stand Alone Toilet Safety Rail
This tail has a magazine rack that adds to the convenience. It is a rail that can be freestanding all around the toilet and it can foot elongated and standard toilet seats. The armrests are padded so as to offer the elderly person comfort as they use it. It doesn’t require any kinds of tools so as to assemble and the exercise itself is quite easy.
The width in between arms is 21 inches while the length of the arms is 25.5 inches. The safety rail can handle up to 300 pounds.
There are many issues that affect the elderly and some of them cannot be controlled. Some of the issues we face as we age have to do with that advanced stage. Poor balance, injuries, limited mobility, and even arthritis are very common amongst the elderly.
Such issues make the activities that everyone else thinks are normal very difficult to complete. This safety rail will offer the much-needed assistance securely. Your loved one can get assistance when they want to sit or stand from a toilet.
The magazine rack that is attached allows you to have your reading materials at arm’s reach as you use the bathroom. The design is created with the elderly in mind and it can help them regain their independence.
5. Moen 30-Inch Flip-Up Bathroom Grab Bar, Stainless (R8960FD)
This is a grab bar that is great for smaller spaces. The best thing is the fact that you can simply flip it when you are not using it so as to economize on space. It is a bar that was created from stainless steel which is corrosion resistant and it can fit in with other finishes that are within your bathroom.
This is also a bar that is ideal for all age groups. Sure, it finds more use where elderly persons are concerned, but it does not in any way mean that other people cannot find it helpful including children. This is because it allows them to enjoy some stability while they use the toilet, bathe, or shower.
This piece is manufactured following the best standards as well as workmanship. It also has a lifetime guarantee for purposes of instilling confidence in the buyers. It can be used by all age groups to assist in stability as they use the toilet, bath or shower.
This bar offers a steady and safe support and it occupies very little space. The fact that you can flip it up means that the shower, toilet or bath will; always have adequate space regardless of how small it is. The construction is made of stainless steel, meaning that it is durable and provides a very lasting performance.
It is available in a stainless or glacier finish which makes it a bright and clean addition to your space. The bathroom will get a classic and very sleek look when it is installed.
6. Moen LR2308W Home Care 12-Inch Suction Balance Assist Bath Grip, Glacier
This is bath grip that has got a secure handle which offers balance and stability within the bathroom. You can mount it securely on a wall. It has got molded contours that offer a very comfortable and also stable grip, allowing you to transport it easily if you have to travel with it.
It is easy to install and you will not need any kind of drilling to get it in place. It cannot be used on a tile surface. You will need a flat and dry space for that.
The area where the grab is to be installed needs to be very clean and dry so that it will hold as it is supposed to. It is very easy to install. The grab has got a grip feature that adds to the comfort you get as you use it. The length of the bar is 12 inches.
It also has a suction design which is able to attach to flat and smooth surfaces very easily. It is made of plastic that is corrosion resistant and it has a white finish which is very neutral. This means that it goes well with any kind of décor that you have within the bathroom area.
7. Vive Bathtub Rail – Bathroom Tub Safety Rail for Elderly
This is bathtub grab bar that makes it safe for the elderly to enter the tub and exit it safely. It is a sturdy option and it can handle up to 300lbs. It offers security and stability for children, seniors and anyone else who may require that extra support, especially those who have injuries or those who have undergone surgery.
It can be adjusted very well as o as to fit different kinds of bathtubs and the range can be anywhere between 3 to 7 inches. The other thing you will discover with this option is the fact that it is scratch resistant and quite ergonomic, the rubber pads do not wear and they protect the bathtub walls and surfaces from any scuffs, scrapes, and scratches as it is being used.
The handle is ergonomic and rounded and it has a height of 14.5 inches providing a secure and comfortable grip.
The installation is very simple and you will not need any tools to get it done. It can be used with different kind’s bathtub styles. The clamp is made of stainless steel and can be secured in place to the bathtub. It also comes with an amazing lifetime guarantee, meaning that you can buy it with great confidence.
8. Vive Toilet Rail – Bathroom Safety Frame
This is a toilet rail that offers safety in the bathroom. It can be a great help for seniors and the disabled. It comes with padded arms that and an adjustable height that allows it to fit many kinds of toilet seats.
The best thing is that the rail can be used with different kinds of toilets regardless of whether they are irregular or standard. The rail has handles that can be adjusted and customized so that it fits different kinds of households according to their needs.
The handles can easily be adjusted anywhere between 21.5 and 26.5 in width. This offers adequate space just above your toilet. You can also adjust its height from 26 inches to 31.5 inches. The legs are well capped with a tip that is non-slip and non-marking offering more convenience and safety.
The fact that it can handle up to 300 pounds, makes it one of the best rails that can be used in the bathroom. It is sturdy, offering additional security and safety as you sit or stand within the bathroom.
It is the perfect rail for elderly persons and the handicapped. You may also find it useful post-surgery or if you have an injury. This is a frame that keeps you from slipping or falling.
9. Stander Security Pole & Curve Grab Bar
This is a grab bar that is perfect for the elderly. It has a standing pole that is two in one and it also has a pivoting curve bar that is able to lock well at 45-degree angles. The height can be adjusted very easily anywhere between 7-10 feet so that it can fit ceilings.
The fact that it has a security poll as well as a grab bar means that you can use it in areas where you need support standing up such as the toilet, near the bed, or couch. The pole can be installed in any kind of room without necessarily having it done permanently.
You can use it as a support handle at the bedside, a standing handle for your chair or as a grab bar within your bathroom. It can handle up to 300 pounds.
This pole can be used for multi-purposes. The best thing is that it has a tension mounted kind of design that means you can move it very easily all around your home without making holes or marks. The grab bar rotates and can be used to maneuver simple sitting positions.
10. Moen R8936P 36-Inch Bathroom Grab Bar, Peened
This is a grab bar that is 36 inches and can support 500 pounds. It has a design that is a secure mount and can be securely and easily installed. It is created from stainless steel that is durable and has a peened finish offering an attractive look.
The surface is also slip-resistant. This is one of the bars that conform to the specifications stipulated by the ADA. It also comes with a manufacturer warranty for a lifetime, which further shows you that it is a product that you can actually rely on and on that can serve you for years to come.
This is a grab bar that makes sure that elderly persons or anyone that needs that extra support are able to keep their balance within the bathroom. The secure mount is usually bought separately.
The design is done in such a way that it can be installed easily and at different angles as well. You can enjoy lasting performance because the stainless steel that is used to make it is durable. The design is also very sleek and you can use it regardless of the kind of décor that you have used within the bathroom.
Conclusion:
Installing grab bars means that you offer the elderly and people with disability accessibility as well as safety as they use the bathroom. There are many issues that have to do with mobility that can warrant the use of bathtub safety bars. They can be spotted installs that are meant for the handicapped as well as facilities that are meant for assisted living.
They can also be used in nursing homes or hospitals. They can be installed in homes as well, especially in the toilet, or bath enclosure and shower. There are some grab bars that include a light feature, meaning that the person using them will be even safer at night. Handicap bathroom accessories should be installed so as to make it safe for all persons to use the bathroom with little or no assistance.
