Best Places to Put Grab Bars and Handrails
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The primary purpose of installing grab bars and handrails in your home is to prevent falls, assist with balance, and support movement during transitions. Having reliable support to hold onto can boost your confidence, enhance your independence, and increase safety as you go about your daily activities.
But which locations are ideal for installing grab bars and handrails?
Strategic Areas for Grab Bars and Handrails
Bathrooms
The bathroom is one of the highest-risk areas for slips and falls due to wet and slippery surfaces. Key locations for grab bars include around showers, bathtubs, and toilets. Installing grab bars near these areas offers stability when entering or exiting the shower or tub and aids in safely sitting down and standing up from the toilet.
Staircases and Steps
Handrails along staircases are essential for preventing falls. Installing handrails on both sides of stairs provides continuous support during ascent and descent. Placing grab bars at the top and bottom of stairways or landings also offers extra safety where transition points exist.
Hallways and Long Narrow Spaces
Long or narrow hallways can benefit from grab bars installed along the walls, offering continuous support while walking. This is particularly helpful for seniors who might need extra balance assistance over longer distances or in areas with uneven flooring or obstacles.
Entryways and Doorways
Installing grab bars near exterior or interior doors and steps supports stability when entering or leaving the home. These areas often involve elevation changes or door thresholds that can be challenging to navigate without support.
In addition to the areas already mentioned, garages and laundry rooms are also important spots for installing grab bars and handrails, as these spaces often present slipping hazards due to spills or clutter.
Grab bars and handrails should be securely mounted to the structural studs within walls for maximum support. Consulting with professionals like occupational therapists can provide personalised recommendations for optimal placement and safety.
