My View:
You didn’t think about your toilet growing up or even when you reached the age of fifty. You just hopped on and then off again without a second thought. I wanted to get a new low-flow toilet to be better for the environment and use less water. So you go to your big-box hardware store and check out the dozens of options and designs of toilets. Why upgrade to a comfortable high-rise toilet instead of a more traditional design?
The toilet in our main bedroom bathroom was giving us trouble. It was running water and filling the tank when not in use. We changed out all the tank flushing mechanics, and it still was refilling after a time. We figured it was original to the home before we purchased it 17 years ago. Maybe it was time for a new toilet. We looked at styles, vendors, and prices (low-end bargain brands $100+ to high-end TOTO’s $1000+ toilets).
They all seem to come in three riser heights from floor to seat: 15 inches, 16.5 inches, and even a few up to 19 inches. We knew the 16.5 would be a good spot for us. I am 5 ft 7 inches, and my husband is 6ft 5 inches. We both have crossed the age sixty-mile marker. Knowing we would get to a point when getting down or up from a toilet would require a higher point for safety and ease than what was in our two bathrooms today.
I will say that after installing the middle-priced American Standard 16.5 low-flow toilet, getting on and off is much easier than before. To be fair, the low-flow part seems to need to be mindful of how much one deposits in one sitting. A mid-deposit flush seems to help move things along. But, to defeat the low flow, you must flush a few more times to keep things moving out and down the drain.
We swapped out both home toilets for 16.5 high and low flow. The American Standard Toilet brand had a better fill tank design than the more expensive Kohler toilets. The Kohler seems to have a little art deco in the fill tank design, which is not the bathroom aesthetic. We plan to replace our current main bedroom bathroom with a wheelchair- and grab-rail bathroom and shower. We will remove the spa tub from the bathroom and have a wheelchair-ready roll-in shower.
Do not forget to check your city, county, or state for water low-flow toilet rebates. Updating to a low-flow toilet that uses less water generally has a rebate from the water department jurisdiction.
When COVID-19 first hit, we installed Smartbidet upgraded seats onto both toilets in our home. These have seat warmers and water heating units. They also have full bidet options for cleaning your underside. If used correctly, there is no need for toilet paper. Even living in the desert in winter, it gets chilling at night. The trip to the bathroom in the middle of the night is so much better when the toilet seat is heated when you sit down on it. All these upgrades to a Senior-Friendly Toilet were worth the effort and cost.
Takeaways:
Takeaways:
a. High-rise toilets provide more comfort and ease for seniors.
b. Upgrading helps prevent falls and increases bathroom safety.
c. ADA-compliant toilets offer accessibility for aging-in-place.
d. A comfortable toilet makes daily routines more manageable.
e. It’s a cost-effective way to improve senior bathroom ergonomics.
Outline:
I. What Is a Comfortable High-Rise Toilet?
II. Why Seniors Should Consider Upgrading
III. Benefits of High-Rise Toilets for Safety and Comfort
IV. Cost-Effective Bathroom Upgrades for Retirees
V. Choosing the Right High-Rise Toilet for Your Needs
Section 1:
What Is a Comfortable High-Rise Toilet?
A comfortable high-rise toilet is designed to sit higher than standard models, usually about 17 to 19 inches off the ground. This extra height makes it easier for seniors to sit and stand up without straining their knees or back. These toilets are often referred to as comfort-height or ADA-compliant toilets, as they meet accessibility standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Read on to find out why upgrade to a comfortable high-rise toilet is so important as we age.
The primary benefit of these toilets is the added ease and comfort they provide. Standard toilets are usually around 15 inches high, which may be too low for older adults or those with mobility issues. High-rise toilets reduce the distance seniors have to lower themselves, making the process of sitting down and getting up much smoother.
Additionally, these toilets often come with ergonomic designs that further enhance comfort. Features such as elongated bowls and soft-closing lids make the entire experience more user-friendly for seniors. Upgrading to a comfortable high-rise toilet isn’t just about comfort, though; it’s also about safety. Bathrooms can be hazardous, and having a higher toilet can reduce the risk of falls, which is a significant concern for older adults.
Section 2:
As we age, everyday tasks can become more difficult, and using the bathroom is no exception. Standard toilets can pose a challenge for seniors, especially those with arthritis, joint pain, or mobility issues. By upgrading to a comfortable high-rise toilet, seniors can regain independence in their daily routines.
One of the main reasons seniors should consider this upgrade is the reduction of strain on joints. Sitting down and standing up from a low toilet can cause unnecessary pressure on the knees and hips. A high-rise toilet alleviates this pressure, making the action much smoother and less painful. This can be particularly important for those with chronic pain or recovering from surgery.
Another reason to upgrade is safety. Bathrooms are one of the most common places where seniors experience falls, and toilets are a major culprit. A high-rise toilet, combined with grab bars or other bathroom aids, can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls. Safety in the bathroom is crucial for maintaining independence, and a toilet upgrade is a simple yet effective way to achieve that.
Section 3:
Benefits of High-Rise Toilets for Safety and Comfort
Upgrading to a high-rise toilet offers a range of benefits, particularly in terms of safety and comfort. First and foremost, these toilets help prevent falls, a major concern for seniors. By reducing the amount of effort needed to sit and stand, high-rise toilets minimize the risk of losing balance or straining muscles.
Comfort is another big advantage. A higher toilet is simply more comfortable for seniors, especially those with mobility issues. The ergonomic design of most high-rise models makes them easy to use, and many come with additional features like heated seats or bidet attachments, which can further enhance comfort and hygiene.
High-rise toilets are also great for aging in place. Seniors who plan to stay in their homes as they age can benefit from a toilet that is designed with their future needs in mind. As mobility decreases over time, having a comfortable, accessible bathroom becomes increasingly important.
Section 4:
Cost-Effective Bathroom Upgrades for Retirees
Upgrading to a high-rise toilet is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your bathroom more senior-friendly. Compared to other home modifications, installing a high-rise toilet is relatively inexpensive, yet it offers significant benefits in terms of safety and comfort.
There are many models available at different price points, making it easy to find one that fits your budget. Additionally, many toilets are designed to be easy to install, so you might not even need to hire a professional, saving you even more money. When considering the cost of the upgrade, it’s important to weigh it against the potential costs of not upgrading, such as medical bills from a fall or the expense of moving to a more accessible living situation.
High-rise toilets are an investment in your future comfort and safety, and they can make aging in place much more manageable.
When you are planning your install of high-rise toilet, look at what you need for grab bars around the toilet and shower areas to help you in later years. Grab bar on the walls will give you something to help lower and raise yourself.
Section 5:
Choosing the Right High-Rise Toilet for Your Needs
When it comes to choosing the right high-rise toilet, there are a few factors to consider. First, you want to make sure the toilet is the correct height for your needs. While most high-rise toilets are around 17 to 19 inches tall, you may want to measure your current toilet and your height to find the most comfortable option.
Next, consider the design features. Many high-rise toilets come with elongated bowls, which are generally more comfortable than round bowls. Some also come with soft-close lids or bidet attachments, which can add to the comfort and convenience of the toilet.
Lastly, it’s important to think about the aesthetics of your bathroom. While functionality should be your top priority, there are plenty of stylish high-rise toilets that will complement your bathroom décor. Look for a model that combines both form and function to get the best of both worlds.
Conclusion:
Upgrading to a comfortable high-rise toilet is a smart move for seniors looking to improve their bathroom’s safety and comfort. These toilets are designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier for seniors to maintain their independence. With features like higher seating, ergonomic designs, and added safety benefits, a high-rise toilet can make a big difference in your daily routine.
Not only do they provide immediate comfort, but they also offer long-term benefits as mobility decreases with age. The cost-effective nature of this upgrade makes it a no-brainer for anyone planning to age in place. Investing in a high-rise toilet is an investment in your future well-being, allowing you to live comfortably and confidently in your home. I hope you can see why upgrading to a comfortable high-rise toilet is so important as we age.
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