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September 28, 2023

Who Installs Grab Bars for Seniors?

Grab bars for seniors are typically installed by licensed contractors, handymen, or home modification specialists experienced in accessibility upgrades. Many companies specialize in aging-in-place solutions and can ensure proper placement and secure installation. In some areas, occupational therapists may also recommend or oversee grab bar installation to meet a senior’s specific needs. Always choose a professional who understands safety standards and can anchor the bars securely to support safe use.

Who typically installs grab bars for seniors?

  • Handyman: A handyman is a general contractor who can tackle a variety of home improvement tasks, including grab bar installation. This can be a good option for a simple installation, especially if studs are readily available in the desired locations.
  • Home disability retrofit contractor: These contractors specialize in modifying homes to make them more accessible and safer for people with disabilities or limited mobility. They’ll be familiar with ADA guidelines and proper grab bar placement for seniors, and can likely handle more complex installations.
  • Occupational Therapist (OT): An OT can assess a senior’s specific needs and recommend the appropriate type, placement, and number of grab bars needed for their safety. While they typically wouldn’t perform the installation themselves, they can provide valuable guidance and might partner with a contractor for the job.
  • Medical equipment supplier: Some medical equipment suppliers offer installation services for grab bars alongside purchasing the grab bars themselves.

                     

Can occupational therapists help?

Yes, occupational therapists can help with grab bar installation planning. While they don’t typically perform the installation themselves, they assess a senior’s specific mobility needs and recommend the ideal placement, height, and type of grab bars for maximum safety and accessibility. In some cases, they may work directly with contractors or home modification specialists to ensure proper installation based on the user’s abilities.

Should grab bars be professionally installed?

Yes, grab bars should ideally be professionally installed to ensure they are securely anchored and capable of supporting the user’s weight. Professionals know how to locate wall studs or use proper anchors, preventing the grab bars from pulling loose during use. Improper installation can compromise safety, increasing the risk of falls. Professional installation ensures the grab bars provide reliable support and meet recommended safety standards.

How do I decide the best professional to install my grab bars?

Firstly, consider the complexity of the installation. If your installation is simple, such as mounting to walls with accessible studs, a qualified handyman may be sufficient. For more complicated installations, like mounting on tile, walls without studs, or requiring structural reinforcement, it’s best to hire a home modification or accessibility specialist.

Factor in the senior’s specific needs. If the senior has mobility challenges or requires customized grab bar placement, consulting an occupational therapist (OT) can be helpful. An OT can recommend the best grab bar type, placement, and height to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

Keep your budget in mind. Handyman services are typically the most affordable, while contractors specializing in accessibility modifications may charge more due to their specialized skills. Some medical equipment providers offer grab bars with installation included, which can simplify the process and potentially save on costs. Get quotes from different professionals to find the best fit for your project and budget.

If you are in need of finding a local professional installer, just fill out this Grab Bar Installation Request Form and within a few hours our installer will get in touch with you!

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