Question
My dad will be coming for a visit and I want to install two grab bars near the toilet he will be using and two in the shower. He is able to walk with the aid of a walker, but is unsteady on his feet and needs something to hold onto.

What features should I look for when I buy the bars? What is the best way to install them - vertically, horizontally or diagonally?

Are there any safety precautions I should take while he is here? I have already thought of the following:

1. Get rid of anything he could trip over - throw rugs, door mats, small footstools
2. I need someway to make sure he doesn't slip on wet tile when he gets out of the shower. I have thought of putting a carpet runner down, to absorb water as he steps out of the shower and anchoring it VERY securely with double-sided carpet tape.
3. Put a night light in the bathroom he will be using at night and also one in the hallway leading from the bedroom to the bathroom
4. I was thinking of getting a baby monitor for his room so he could call me at night if he needed anything, and I would hear if he had a problem.
5. Since it's nor practical for him to bring his lift chair, I was thinking of buying one of those "portable lifts" that gives you a boost out of any chair.
6. I will rearrange the furniture as needed to make sure he has plenty of room for his walker.

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. I am looking forward to having him here for a couple of weeks, but want to do everything I can to keep him safe.

Thanks

Jo

Answer
Grab bars for toilets- the most versatile are the swing-a-way versions, which allow them to be moved out of the way when more room is needed. Most toilet grab bars are mounted so they are horizontal. Exactly where they are mounted depends on your room, locations of studs, etc. Often, you only need one bar because something else in the room (wall, sink, counter, etc.) acts as a support on the other side.

Slipping in shower area- make sure you have non-skid decals or something installed in the shower and nearby. You can usually find non-skid rubbery mats that would work well for outside the shower. I have also seen people sew rubber non-skid material to the back of shower mats instead of taping it down.

Baby monitor- There is a certain dignity/privacy issue with always-on monitors. You might consider something more like a 'portable call light'- a braclet or necklace that sounds an alarm when pressed. If you cannot find one, you can make one out of a cordless doorbell.

Overall- it sounds like you are doing just right! Good luck and have a great visit!