Considering how to care for loved ones at home becomes especially crucial as the current pandemic rages and COVID related deaths from long term care facilities account for around 50% of Idaho’s coronavirus death toll.
If you’re caring for a loved one with special needs, wanting to age in the comfort of your own home, or trying to accommodate and care for elderly parents – a few key modifications to your home can make all the difference. Boise plumber Brad Adams highlights options that reduce strain and improve safety.
Toileting: Bidets Automate Cleaning & Increase Independence
Using the toilet is likely the most frequent personal care activity humans perform on a daily basis. For those with limited abilities this is also one of the most strenuous tasks of self care. Bidets are toilet seats that contain water spray nozzles to gently clean your bottom area rather than using toilet paper. This reduces the strain of stooping over and reaching around, as well as minimizes toilet paper abrasion on sensitive skin. Bidet seats are made to fit standard toilets with minimal modification to your current plumbing, and offer unique features such as instant warm water, front feminine spray and warm air driers. To choose a bidet call a knowledgeable plumber like us, we’ll help you select and install one that’s sure to fit.
Step Through Tubs Provide Therapeutic Bathing Without Falls
Falls are the leading cause of ER visits among the elderly, and stepping into the traditional bathtub exponentially raises the risk of falling for those with limited abilities. Step through tubs are entered through a leak proof door in the side of the tube, which greatly reduces fall risks by eliminating the need to step over a tub wall. Options like grab bars, hydrotherapy jets, tub seats, anti-scald valves, and non skid surfaces make bathing both possible and a pleasure for those who struggle with traditional tubs. Selecting your tub starts with an in-home consult to determine which model best suits your needs and space.
Accessible Shower Enclosures Make Showering At Home Easier
Both showering and transferring into and out of the shower can pose substantial fall risk, especially for those who use canes, walkers or wheelchairs. Accessible shower enclosures provide a safer showering experience with barrier free thresholds that allow easy entering and transferring with walkers and wheelchairs. Available in the most common bathtub sizes, these showers are often easily installed in your existing space with some plumbing modifications. Features such as padded shower seats, grab bars, pressure balanced mixing valves, and handheld showers allow you to have the perfect shower at home.
If you or your loved one have physical limitations that necessitate toileting and bathing accommodations, we can help. We are full service plumbers in Boise who are knowledgeable about the latest accommodations for aging in place and special needs that make living easier. Visit us on the web at www.boiseserviceplumbers.com or call us today at 208-519-6500.
