by Julie Heiberger AIA NCARB LEED AP BD+C and Jon Rynish LEED AP
This article originally appeared in the Spring 2024 issue of Provider magazine.
In a senior living facility, the bathroom is arguably the most important space to providers and their residents. Studies show that most incidents and falls occur in the bathroom. The independence, hygiene, dignity, and safety that occurs in the bathroom is all pivotal. That is why it’s so important to create an environment that supports aging over time and promotes independence for seniors.
Here are 10 key elements to making a safe, comfortable, and pleasant bathroom environment.
- LIGHTING. The amount of lighting the elderly need increases due to changes in aging eyes. Often, mature adults are most disoriented in the middle of the night. The ability to see clearly, and do so seamlessly, is vital for seniors. Automatic lights and night lighting can aid the sense of security and reduce risks throughout the bathroom. During the day, adequate lighting in the shower and tub increases the ability to see faucets and toiletries, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls. Also, it is important to provide proper lighting around the toilet and within the shower area in the event that staff assistance is necessary.