TOILETS and TUBS
Mom and Dad had their own bathroom next to their bedroom. The Veterans Administration (VA) provided us with a handicap toilet seat with armrests and a chair for the tub/shower. They gave us handrails to install in the tub/shower, but we weren't able to use them due to the fact that we didn't own the apartment and were concerned that attempting to install the bars would irreparably damage the shower tile. Instead, Robert provided physical assistance to Dad when he took showers.
 To make it easier to them to bathe or wash the tub, we purchased a hand-held shower head with hose extension. Later on, when Dad needed extra help, it made my job much easier.
Slip Preventions
To prevent slipping upon entering and exiting the tub/shower, we purchased a large, slip-proof bathtub mat that provided a stable entry and exit for both Mom and Dad. The shower chair also provided a place for them to sit down or steady themselves while bathing.
Since our bathroom floors were made of marble, they were cold and hard surfaces. We had beautiful fluffy 100% cotton bathroom rugs in front of the toilet and sink, but they were too bulky and slippery for my parents’ shuffling feet. Betty found new smaller rubber backed acrylic rugs. Not only where these safer, but easy to wash and replace when spills occurred.
Towels and Washcloths
Betty and I enjoyed the spa type bathroom set up with luxurious towels and beauty potions, and we wanted my parents to experience the same. The problem was that my mom, Blanche, had arthritis in her hands. Using the thick beautiful washcloths and towels was too difficult for her. Mom’s solution was to use the old washcloths and towels from their apartment. Since the colors did not match our decor, Betty found some inexpensive substitutes. Now, both ladies were satisfied. Mom had the thinness she needed and Betty had the decor she wanted. MORE>
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