Going to the bathroom should never be a chore. But for elderly adults, it can often pose a safety hazard. Luckily, there are steps you can take to create a safe bathroom for your elderly loved one. In this post, we will review what you need to know about bathroom designs for the elderly and take a look at bathroom remodeling ideas for seniors.
Problems with Bathrooms for Seniors
A remodeled bathroom for seniors will address the following concerns:
Moisture that causes surfaces to become slippery when wet
Climbing or reaching for items
Poor lighting
Room to maneuver with a cane, walker, or wheelchair
Bathroom remodels for seniors do not end with this list. For more information, take a look at the Americans with Disabilities Act design standards. Now that we know more about what we need to fix, let's take a closer look at bathroom renovations for the elderly.
Essential Bathroom Improvements for Seniors
When it comes to bathroom remodel ideas for the elderly, it can be overwhelming to think about all of the things you may need. Rather than thinking about the big picture, its best to only think about one section of the bathroom at a time. Senior-friendly bathroom designs should include all of the following:
General Accessibility
You don't want your loved one to walk upstairs for every bathroom visit. Step one in your bathroom remodel for the elderly should be to ensure you have at least one bathroom on the first floor or install a chair lift for easier access to the second floor. Furthermore, ensure the bathroom is well lit and has enough room to move a walker or wheelchair.
Entryways
If a bathroom door doesn't unlock from the outside or if it opens into the bathroom, it can create some hassles for seniors. Install pocket doors or widened doors to capitalize on space. It's ideal to widen doorways to about 36 inches so there is plenty of room to navigate with a walker.
Floors
For your loved one, adding non-slip bathmats and rugs can prevent slips and falls. Additionally, you can add thick rugs for cushioning knees if you or a caregiver have to bathe your elderly loved one.
Showers/Baths
A walk-in tub, a built-in shower seat, a curb less shower, or glass shower doors will make bathing much easier for a senior. You may also want to install grab bars to make entry and exit even simpler.
Toilets
If your loved one struggles with sitting and standing up, sitting on a toilet can be challenging. Consider installing a higher toilet or toilet seat extensions to ensure they can sit down easily. Grab bars around the toilet can also ensure ease of access.
Sinks
Ensure the sink is easily within grasp for your loved one by lowering the counter height or having the sink attached to the wall. Installing lever- or foot-operated faucets can also be helpful for seniors with arthritis.
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time. If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.
Why Planning Ahead Matters for Senior RelocationsBy A Call to Order Professional OrganizerA Gentle Path ForwardThe decision to relocate a senior loved onewhether to a smaller home, a senior living community, or closer to familyis one filled with emotion. Its not just a move; its a life transition. Memories, milestones, and treasured belongings are all part of the journey.Thats why planning ahead for senior relocations is so important. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, weve walked alongside many families navigating this path. When approached early and with care, the process becomes more manageable, more meaningful, and less stressful for everyone involved.As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, families are seeking ways to reduce stress, preserve family harmony, and honor the pastall while creating a safer and more supportive environment for their aging loved ones. Planning early is a gift that brings clarity, comfort, and connection.The Emotional and Practical Benefits of Early PlanningWhen it comes to senior relocation, time is your greatest ally. By starting early, families can take a step-by-step approach that reduces overwhelm and supports everyone emotionally.1. More Time for Emotional ProcessingLeaving a longtime home is never just about the physical spaceits about letting go of decades of memories. Planning ahead gives seniors time to say goodbye in a way that feels respectful and gentle. They can revisit special items, reflect on milestones, and share stories that matter. This emotional preparation leads to less resistance and more peace.2. Reducing Family Stress and TensionOne of the most common challenges during a last-minute move is family conflict. When time is limited, decisions are rushed, tensions rise, and tempers flare. Early planning allows families to work together thoughtfully, honoring both practical needs and emotional attachments without pressure.3. Better Options and AvailabilityIn todays fast-moving housing and senior care market, planning early gives you access to better housing choices, preferred communities, and moving services that may book out months in advance. You can take time to visit potential homes, ask the right questions, and ensure your loved one feels comfortable and supported.A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting the Senior Move ConversationStarting the conversation about senior relocation can feel overwhelmingbut with the right approach, it can be an opportunity for connection, understanding, and even excitement about the next chapter.1. Start with Empathy, Not UrgencyBegin the conversation with love. Avoid phrases like You have to move or You cant stay here anymore. Instead, ask open questions: What would make you feel more comfortable in your daily routine? Would you like help sorting through some of your things? By making it about their comfort and wellbeing, you create a safe space for honest dialogue.2. Involve a Professional Organizer EarlyAt A Call to Order, we specialize in senior move management. We understand how to navigate the emotional landscape of downsizing and transitions. We guide families step-by-step, helping to sort, pack, and plan with both heart and strategymaking the process feel less like a chore and more like a celebration of lifes journey.3. Create a Personalized TimelineBreak the process into manageable stages:36 months out: Begin conversations and explore living options.23 months out: Begin sorting and letting go of items that wont move with your loved one.1 month out: Start packing essentials and coordinating logistics.1 week out: Final preparations and emotional support.This structure reduces decision fatigue and helps everyone feel in control.4. Focus on the PositiveWhile its okay to honor grief or sadness, help your loved one look forward to the benefits: less home maintenance, easier access to care, and opportunities for new friendships. Highlight what theyll gain, not just what theyll lose.Let the Journey Be Gentle, TogetherRelocating a senior loved one is never just about boxes and furnitureits about dignity, legacy, and love. By planning ahead, families can avoid unnecessary stress, preserve emotional well-being, and make the journey a beautiful one.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, were more than just moving supportwere partners in transition. We walk alongside families with empathy, expertise, and the heartfelt belief that every move should feel like a new beginning, not a loss. Contact us today to begin planning your loved ones next chapter with care. Visit www.acalltoorderco.com for more resources, checklists, and guidance.Lets plan aheadbecause your familys peace is worth it.
Griswold Home Care for Westminster, Broomfield & Boulder: Your Trusted Partner in Non-Medical In-Home CareAt Griswold Home Care for Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder, we understand the importance of receiving care in the comfort of your own home. Our non-medical home care services offer a compassionate and supportive alternative to nursing homes, allowing you or your loved ones to maintain independence and quality of life while staying in a familiar environment. With over four decades of experience and a strong legacy of compassion and integrity, Griswold Home Care stands as a pioneer in the home care industry, dedicated to improving lives through personalized care solutions.Why Choose Griswold Home Care?Griswold Home Care has established itself as a leader in non-medical in-home care by prioritizing the well-being of our clients and the quality of our care professionals. We firmly believe that care starts with the people who provide it. Our Care Professionals are the foundation of our success, bringing not only skill and expertise but also genuine compassion and dedication to every client they serve.Our commitment to innovation and excellence is driven by our desire to enhance the lives of those we touch in the Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder communities. We are passionate about ensuring that individuals can continue to live where they love, surrounded by the comforts of home and the support they need to thrive. With Griswold Home Care, you can "Live Assured," knowing that your care is handled with the utmost respect and empathy.Comprehensive Non-Medical Home Care ServicesAt Griswold Home Care, we offer a broad range of non-medical home care services designed to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our services include:Personal Care: Our compassionate caregivers assist with daily living activities, including bathing, grooming, dressing, and mobility support. We ensure that personal care is delivered with dignity and respect, helping individuals maintain their independence while receiving the necessary assistance.Homemaking: We understand that a well-maintained home contributes significantly to overall well-being. Our homemaking services include light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, and grocery shopping. We strive to create a safe and comfortable living environment for our clients, allowing them to enjoy their home without the stress of managing household chores.Companionship: Social interaction is crucial for emotional health. Our caregivers provide friendly companionship, engaging in meaningful conversations, participating in hobbies, and offering emotional support. We believe that fostering strong connections helps improve quality of life and combat feelings of loneliness or isolation.Support for Conditions, Illnesses, or Injuries: Whether dealing with chronic conditions, recovering from surgery, or managing an illness, our caregivers offer specialized support tailored to individual needs. We work closely with clients and their families to ensure that care plans address specific requirements, providing a reliable and comforting presence during challenging times.Why Non-Medical Home Care?Non-medical home care services are increasingly becoming a preferred alternative to institutional settings like nursing homes. The flexibility and personalization offered by non-medical home care allow individuals to receive care in their own homes, where they feel most comfortable. This approach not only supports physical well-being but also promotes emotional and mental health by allowing individuals to remain in familiar surroundings.Our services are often used in conjunction with home health care and assisted living services to provide a comprehensive care solution that addresses all aspects of a persons needs. Griswold Home Care collaborates with other healthcare providers to ensure that clients receive seamless and coordinated care.Why Griswold Home Care is the Right ChoiceGriswold Home Care is committed to being the wisest financial alternative for our clients and their families. Our office fees are structured to ensure that our caregivers are compensated with competitive wages, which helps us attract and retain the best individuals in the community. By keeping our administrative overhead to a minimum, we focus on delivering high-quality care while maintaining affordability.We take pride in our award-winning reputation and our ability to adapt to the evolving needs of our clients. Our dedication to continuous improvement and client satisfaction ensures that we remain at the forefront of the non-medical home care industry.Contact Us TodayIf you or a loved one are considering non-medical in-home care services in Westminster, Broomfield, or Boulder, Griswold Home Care is here to help. Our experienced team is ready to provide the compassionate support you need to live comfortably and confidently in your own home. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in creating a personalized care plan that meets your unique needs.At Griswold Home Care, we are honored to be part of your journey and look forward to serving you with dedication and heart.
Griswold Home Care is a non-medical home care company. This type of home care is becoming more popular than nursing homes and our home care services are usually used in conjunction with home health care and assisted living services. We employ Caregivers who give in-home care services such as personal care, Homemaking, Companionship and other home care services. Our non-medical home care office fees are kept in a way that Caregivers can be paid decent wages, which in turn helps offices to be able to attract the right people in the community. We keep our administrative overhead to a minimum in order to be the most cost effective solution for our Clients and their families.At Griswold Home Care for Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder, we understand that you or a loved one may require care in the comfort of your own home. We provide non-medical home care services as a form of compassionate and supportive alternative to nursing homes, so that you or your loved one can maintain your independence and quality of life at home. With more than four decades of experience, and a strong legacy of compassion and integrity, Griswold Home Care is one of the leading home care companies, committed to changing lives through personalized care solutions.Griswold Home Care has established itself as a leader in non-medical in-home care by focusing on the wellbeing of our clients and the quality of our care givers. We firmly believe that care starts with the people who provide it. Our Care Professionals are the heart and soul of our success, they dont just bring skill and expertise to the table, but also compassion and dedication in every client they care for.To be the best, we strive to innovate and excel in order to improve the lives of the people we serve in the communities of Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder. We are passionate about the fact that people should be able to remain in the place they love, their own homes, with the support they require to do so. You can "Live Assured" with Griswold Home Care because we treat your care with the utmost respect and empathy that you deserve.Comprehensive Non-Medical Home Care ServicesAt Griswold Home Care, we provide all inclusive non-medical home care services that are tailored to the needs of each person. Our services include:Personal Care: Our dedicated caregivers help with daily activities such as showering, shaving, dressing and ambulation. We make sure that personal care is given with respect and dignity so that the individual can get the help they require without losing their autonomy.Homemaking: We know that a tidy home is an important part of peoples well-being. Our homemaking services entail cleaning, cooking, doing laundry, and buying groceries. We want to make sure that your clients are able to live in a safe and comfortable environment in their own home and without having to worry about cleaning or cooking.Companionship: Isolation is harmful to the mental state of an individual hence social interaction is very important. Our caregivers provide warm company conversations, participate in favorite activities, and give emotional support. We know that having good relationships with people can enhance the quality of life and decrease feelings of loneliness or despair.Support for Conditions, Illnesses, or Injuries: Our caregivers provide specific care for different chronic diseases, post surgical care or for any other illness that a client may have. We pride ourselves in the fact that we develop care plans that meet the particular needs of the client, and we offer them and their families a reassuring figure during the recovery process.Home health care services are now preferred to put in institutional facilities such as nursing homes. The flexibility and personalization of non-medical home care helps people get care in the comfort of their own homes. This approach not only addresses the physical concerns but also the psychological and spiritual aspects of an individual by allowing them to stay at home. We provide our services in combination with home health care and assisted living services to offer an all-encompassing care program that encompasses every aspect of a persons life. Griswold Home Care partners with other healthcare professionals to guarantee that clients get quality and coordinated care.Griswold Home Care has the goal of being the wisest financial choice for our clients and their families. Our caregivers are paid competitive wages through our office fees, which helps us attract and retain the very best people in the community. We limit our administrative overhead to better focus on providing quality care at an affordable price.We are proud of our award-winning status and our capacity to address the ever-changing needs of our clients. At Griswold Home Care, we pride ourselves in being a company that is not only committed to the improvement of the non-medical home care industry but also to the improvement of our clients.If you or a loved one require non-medical in-home care services in Westminster, Broomfield, or Boulder, Griswold Home Care is here to help. Our professional staff is eager to give you the kind of compassionate support you need to remain as independent as possible in your own home. If you want to know more about the services we offer and how we can help you and your loved ones, contact us today.To Griswold Home Care, it has been our privilege to be a part of your journey and we look forward to serving you with passion and spirit.