Grab Bars - Resource & Discussion

Grab Bar Placement at Entrance to the Shower

2009-03-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

Entering and exiting the shower or bath area can pose a formidable obstacle to some of my more debilitated customers. I occasionally will offer a more effective solution to situations which warrant an increased degree of stability at the entrance point to the shower - especially when the individual must step over an elevated threshold to access the shower. I sometimes suggest vertical grab rails placed both just inside and just outside the shower at the point of entry and/or exit if this is possible. This allows the individual to securely stabilize himself or herself with both upper extremities as opposed to using one hand to grasp the the grab bar and the other to hold onto what is often an unstable assitive device such as a walker on a slippery tiled floor. This additional grab bar not only greatly enhances stability but also allows the individual to reduce weight bearing on an affected limb if neccessary. Customers are sometimes resistant to this solution but it is nonetheless extremely effective and one which I strongly recommend for situations which require a higher degree of assistance at the shower.

Visit Mr. Grab Bar's website and Grab Bar Blog for more information about grab bar selection, placement and installation methods.

Mr. Grab Bar

Decorative Bathroom Grab Bars - Smart Alternative to Towel Bars for Seniors

2009-02-18T05:44:00.000-08:00

I often suggest to many of my customers the replacement of a loose towel bar in the bathroom with a properly installed decorative grab bar. It is common for one to grasp whatever is available when they are weak, unstable or have actually lost their balance. Towel bars are frequently grabbed for support but can actually be an invitation to disaster. Replacing a screw mounted towel bar with a bathroom grab bar is a simple procedure and what I consider a very important bath safety modification for seniors and those at risk for falls. A wide range of decorative bathroom grab bars and grab bar installation products can be viewed on our website.

Grab Bars Make a Wonderful Gift for Seniors

2009-01-22T18:21:00.000-08:00

I am always delighted to hear from my previous customers how the grab bars I had installed for them several years earlier have made such a difference in their lives. I still find it suprising when I hear this from customers. Properly installed grab bars provide a tremendous sense of security for seniors and make showering much less stressful. It is difficult for many of us to truly comprehend some of the psychological benefits provided by the addition of grab rails to the shower.

Grab Bars make a wonderful gift for seniors. I believe there is no better way to show your loved ones how much you care. Many of the grab bars that we ship out from our warehouse at Mr. Grab Bar are actually gifts ordered by children or grandchilden for their aging parents. Many seniors are much more receptive to grab bars when provided in the form of a gift. Presentation of grab bars in the form of a gift provide an ideal way of dealing with a senior who is resistant to the notion of having grab bars installed - a gift on the other, especially from a grandchild, is hard to refuse.

The Long Term Benefits of Grab Bars following a Total Knee or Total Hip Replacement

2009-01-08T05:03:00.000-08:00

The benefits of having grab bars installed, particularly in the bathroom following a total hip or total or replacement are obvious and are usually appreciated primarily in the short term following surgery. What many do not always realize is that although they can now attain a much higher to a level of activity and freedom of pain, there is some dimishment in the proprioceptive abilities of that joint (ability to sense its position in space). I believe that for this reason-greater activity and reduced proprioception -that grab bars can provide an important additional degree of safety in the shower for the long term.

Mr. Grab Bar

Using a Grab Bar in Conjunction With Elevated Toilet or Commode

2009-01-07T05:24:00.000-08:00

A grab bar placed strategically next to an elevated toilet(ADA toilet) or 3 in 1 commode chair can serve an important function in terms of safety and assist for those demonstrating some degree of difficulty with sitting and standing. The elevated seat is wonderful in terms of assisting the individual with the initiation of movement but it does not provide the continued assist throught the entire range of movement from sit to stand, nor does it provide a high degree of security when one has to reach backwards to assist while sitting. A strategically placed Grab Bar can provide the additional assistance neccessary to provide safe function throughout the entire movement of sitting to standing and standing to sitting. I highly recommend the usage of a grab bar to many of my clients who demonstrate difficulty with a commode or raised toilet seat.

Mr. Grab Bar

Grab Bar Placement - Transitional Areas and Doorways

2008-12-29T05:22:00.000-08:00

I often place a vertical grab bar in locations where one exits or enters an area - for example at the entrance to the shower or bath, at the entrance to a home or entrance to the garage. These particular areas are often frightening to many seniors and those with limitations of strength, perception or balance. I tend to use a longer grab bar when the transition itself poses a discrepancy in height so as to accomodate effective grasp from either a position of entrance or exit. I occasionally place a vertical grab bar on either side of the transition when the individual is much more limited on one side of his or her body and requires the ability to use the same extremity to grasp the grab bar when both entering or exiting.
I have also on occasion placed grab bars on the wall in close proximity to the bed and along hallways to facilitate transfers into and out of bed and to enhance stability when navigating to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
We encourage visitors to our blog to visit our website and grab bar shop to learn more about the wide varieties of grab bar styles and finishes that we offer.

GRAB BAR INSTALLATION - How to avoid cracking tile

2008-12-18T00:26:00.000-08:00

Grab Bar installation can be a little frightening for some, even those with much experience in the building trades. One of the main concerns can be tile damage during the grab bar installation process. This can of course occur but can be avoided by paying close attention to the task at hand and thinking things through.

It is rarely the drilling process that will directly damage the tile, but actually the process of fastening the grab bars. Here are some common factors which immediately come to mind.

1. Overtightening - I am alway careful to adjust the torque on my drill-driver to be sure I do not overtighten. I frequently finish off each screw by hand to be certain of this.

2. Assessment of hole depth available - it is essential to be aware of the clearance available behind the hole that you have drilled to be sure there is ample room for your fastener. If your fastener cannot go any further and a tile anchor is in use, the anchor will create a backward force on the tile and possibly crack the tile. Whenever I attach grab bars to outside walls or walls consisting of tile, drywall (or backer board), furring then block - I drill into the block to make sure the screws have ample room available.

3. Assessment of tile condition - It is important to inspect the tile prior to installation for any signs of pre-existing damage, loose tiles etc. by looking, listening and feeling the surface you plan to work on.

BATHROOM GRAB BARS - Part II - Where to install grab bars for safety & assistance at the shower or tub

2008-12-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

I typically try to install at least two grab bars in a shower or tub situation (non-handicap accessible) . I try to set one bathroom grab bar as an entry or exit assist and mount this vertically close to the entry point of the shower or bath. the advantage of mounting this entry grab bar vertically is that it covers a range of height which accomodates varied users and it also accomodates for a discrepancy in height between the shower floor and the bathroom floor when one exists. In my opinion, the vertical grab bar can be used very effectively when both exiting or entering the enclosure as opposed to a horizontal or diagonally placed bar which does not provide an effective functional grasp for this particular activity. I mount a second bathroom grab bar either horizontally or diagonally on the far wall of the shower usually opposite the entry point of the shower. In larger shower enclosures, I sometimes mount additional horizontal grab bars on the various walls of the shower as neccessary. My approach at least when dealing with individuals who display limitated mobility, strength, balance or other deficit, is to try and confine their bathing area so that they are not wandering about in the shower. This is extremely important since it greatly reduces their risk of falling in the shower. In terms of type of Grab Bar that I select - I prefer to use non slip shower or bathroom grab bars such as the Curl Grip Grab Bar, Peened Grab Bar or Eurogrip Grab Bar. These particular bathroom grab bars offer an enhanced grip when the grab bar surface is soapy or wet or when it is neccessary to place the grab bar at an angle due to to stud or location or desired function.

The other location that I often locate a bathroom grab bar is next to the toilet or commode to assist with elevation or descent from or to the seated position. I discussed this in detail in one of my earlier posts.

I observe existing towel bars within the bathroom area for certain tell-tale signs that indicate they are inadvertently being used for support. It is very common to see that the towel bars have worked their way loose from incorrect usage or due to poor installation. Towel bars unfortunately provide a very inviting handhold to those with diminished strength or balance and can actually be an invitation to disaster. In some cases I will replace thesese towel bars with a properly installed bathroom grab bars to provide a few more elements of enhanced safety within the bathroom environment. Every degree or element of bath safety will add up to a much safer environment for those at risk for falls.

BATHROOM GRAB BARS – Part I : BATHROOM FALLS

2008-12-13T05:08:00.000-08:00

Grab Bars can potentially be placed in many critical locations throughout the home, but many individuals are resistant to the concept of installing grab bars throughout their home, especially in areas other than the bathroom. When grab bars are considered, it is frequently bathroom safety that is addressed – after all the bathroom is considered one of the most dangerous places in the home in terms of fall risk. Bathroom falls can occur within the shower or tub enclosure while bathing, at the entry point to the shower or bath while entering or exiting, and next to the toilet while rising or descending. Bathroom falls can sometime occur next to the vanity or in the central portion of the bathroom, especially if that portion of the floor is tiled, and slippery when wet.
In my experience I find that there is obviously a population of seniors that are at risk for bathroom falls due to limited mobility, weakness, fatigue, diminished balance, poor vision and a host of other debilitating factors. This population group is often very aware of the importance of properly placed Bathroom Grab Bars and is often but not always very cautious and deliberate in their movements, primarily out of fear of falling. I also believe there exists another sub group within the senior population that is not mentioned in most discussions. This population consists of active, healthy seniors who are so confident in there physical abilities that they scoff at the notion of bathroom grab bars. These “invincible” seniors as I refer to them, frequently do not take any caution whilst in the shower, or while stepping in or out of the tub area, and are at risk for suffering an unexpected, devastating fall which can quickly transform their lives.
The “unexpected fall” should be a big concern to our aging population and it is one of the key focal points of Mr. Grab Bar, a unique business concept created by a Physical Therapist in 1998. Bathroom Grab Bars in a large array of finishes, styles and sizes can be observed in a well organized fashion at the Mr. Grab Bar website, and your questions regarding grab bar installation or grab bar placement can be addressed and discussed on Mr. Grab Bar’s “Grab Bar Blog”.

Mr. Grab Bar

GRAB BARS & STROKE

2008-12-10T21:24:00.001-08:00

Grab Bars can provide a tremendous degree of assist and a sense of security for those who have suffered a stroke. It is important to carefully assess the limitations of the individual so grab bars can be placed in suitable locations. It is common with stroke for one to demonstrate reduced mobility, strength and awareness on one side of the body though this not always the case. Visual deficits, balance difficulties, personality changes are just some of the many manifestations of stroke and these all may play some role in deciding where grab bars should be placed to provide the optimum benefit. The goals of providing safety, assistance and a sense of security should be kept in mind when conceiving a suitable arrangement for grab bar placement in this scenario. Grab Rails that are located in sensible locations can make a world of difference for an individual who has had a stroke and can help to reduce the limiting effects of fear and insecurity which may initially accompany basic activities such as standing and walking. A securely installed grab bar offers the stability that many patients seek and will help to speed the recovery process. Grab Bars in various sizes and finishes are available on our website or by visiting the Mr. Grab Bar showroom in Naples, Florida.

Mr. Grab Bar

GRAB BAR PLACEMENT - Assistance at the commode

2008-12-05T04:14:00.001-08:00

Grab Bar placement for minor assistance and safety at the commode in my opinion is different than grab bar placement for handicap assist. In a handicap accessible bathroom grab bars are usually placed at 33-36 inches off the floor behind and at the side of the commode. In a residential situation where the individual has some difficulty sitting down or rising from the commode, the handicap grab bar arrangement does not always work.
I believe that it is important to control one's center of gravity on the way down or up and a tall individual cannot always reach down to 33-36" and control his descent. In addition most home owners do not often desire a 42" grab bar next to the toilet, or due to space constraints this type of grab bar placement cannot be put into effect. I often demonstrate to our customers various grab bar configurations alloted by the particular layout of their bathroom and the anchoring possibilities available for their particular situation. Sometimes a diagonally or vertically placed grab bar provides the ideal solution for their particular situation.
It is important to note that with regards to the extremity that is grasping the grab bar, the elbow should initially be in a relatively extended position when initiating one's movement upward, and in a relatively flexed position when initiating their descent from a standing position to a sitting position. This allows the flexors of the elbow to work as efficiently as possible in both a concentric fashion (elevation) and eccentrically (descent) respectively for sitting to standing or standing to sitting. Essentially this means that the placement of a grab bar should be such that the individual can sufficently extend his arm to grasp the grab bar and use the grab bar to its full mechanical advantage. For instance if a grab bar is placed diagonally in close proximity to the commode and not far enough forward, the individual may have difficulty getting the bar to provide the assistance neccessary for elevation or descent. Every situation poses its own concerns and obstacles but an effective solution for must individuals can usually be obtained with common sense and experience.

For more opinions or questions related to grab bar placement, grab bar selection or anchoring methods, please do not hesitate to post your comments to this blog or email us at customerservice@mrgrabbar.com. We encourage you to also visit our website at http://www.mrgrabbar.com/.

Mr. Grab Bar

BRUSHED NICKEL GRAB BARS – The Moen Kingsley Grab Bar in brushed nickel is one of my personal favorites

2008-12-01T17:38:00.000-08:00

`One of my favorite grab bars to install is the Kingsley Grab Bar in Brushed Nickel by Moen – Creative Specialties International. It just looks so impressive when it is mounted on the wall. It of course cannot coordinate with the décor in every situation but when it does, it oozes style. I personally find that the Kingsley Brushed Nickel Grab Bar works best when the existing faucets and bath accessories are in a brushed nickel finish as well. Most of the bathrooms I work with use standard chrome finishes on the fixtures so I am quite excited when I come across a customer with brushed nickel décor since I know the Kingsley Grab Bar in Brushed Nickel will present the ideal solution for providing bath safety with distinctive style. The Moen Kingsley Brushed Nickel Grab Bar is available in 12” YG5412BN, 18” YG5418BN, 24” YG5424BN, 30” YG5430BN and 36” YG5436BN.
Installation of the Kingsley Grab bar is simple with the added flexibility provide by Moen’s SecureMount flange. One suggestion I have with respect to installation is to use a thin rigid plastic or metallic shield to protect the tapered portion of the flange when tightening the fasteners. The fastener may shift slightly while it is tightened and scratch or gouge the flange. One more point to note is that the circular flange covers fit on loosely and could benefit from the application of caulking to improve their adherence to the flange.
The Kingsley Brushed Nickel Grab Bar is considerably heavier than most of the other brushed nickel grab bars that I work with and one should take added caution in handling the product since it may cause significant damage if it is accidentally dropped. The same rule would of course apply for the Kingsley Grab Bar in the Oil Rubbed Bronze or Chrome finishes as well since construction is basically the same.
My customers are always pleased to know that Moen Kingsley Grab Bars are ADA compliant, come with Moen’s Lifetime Limited Warranty and coordinate extremely well with Moen Kingsley faucets and bathroom accessories.

Mr. Grab Bar

MOEN GRAB BARS ARE BOTH SAFE & STYLISH

2008-11-28T20:34:00.000-08:00

Grab Bars that are pleasant in appearance make it much easier for many to accept. A large percentage of those who could truly benefit from the addition of bathroom grab bars are very hesitant due to the pre-conceived notion that these "handicap bars" are institutional looking and will detract from the overall appearance of the home. Moen - Creative Specialties International has developed an extensive line of bath safety products, most notably grab bars, which they offer in a wide range of attractive finishes. These decorative grab bars coordinate beautifully with Moen' range of bath accessories and faucet collections. The entire collection of Moen Grab Bars can be seen in a very organized fashion by visiting the Mr. Grab Bar website at http://www.mrgrabbar.com/.
Some of the most interesting finishes that are available are Oil Rubbed Bronze, Old World Bronze, Brushed Nickel, Chrome and Polished Brass. It may take some time before we see a general acceptance of these essential home safety devices. Bathroom grab bars are an essential, empowering but often overlooked device that can make a world of difference to most seniors. The fact that Moen's collection of grab bars is so attractive may help to overcome the resistance that many still have with respect to the addition of these devices to their home.

The second major objection to the addition of grab bars to various locations within the home is the mind set of many Americans that these important devices are only for the use of those with tremendous physical limitations of both mobility and strength and serve no purpose for an active senior. This can not be further from the truth. It is all too often that a very active senior or healthy individual of any age for that matter suffers a devastating fall which could have easily been prevented by the simple addition of grab bars. Many wait until they need grab bars before deciding to have them installed. Unfortunately these individuals have waited too long and only after an unexpected fall do they realize the mistake they have made. What often goes unrecognized is in situatuations where a caregiver must assist in the bathing of an individual with some degree of disability, the caregiver will also be at the risk of falling without the presence of grab bars in sensible. This wonderful, non-institutional collection of Grab Bars offered by Moen, now makes it easier for all of us to not allow our pride to preceed a fall.

- Mr. Grab Bar

POLISHED BRASS GRAB BARS - CONCERNS ABOUT DURABILITY

2008-11-27T09:04:00.000-08:00

Over the years I have installed numerous brass grab bars from a variety of manufacturers. I have generally been less than pleased with most of these products due to their tendency to tarnish. I have had very positive results with the Moen Polished Brass Grab Bar -available in two sizes 18" R8718PB and 24" R8724PB. Moen has apparently put extensive research and testing into their finishes and produces a product which I take great pride in installing. The PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating process is used by Moen to enhance the wear resistance, hardness and inhibition of oxidation with materials such as Brass. PVD coatings are used in many industrial applications such as aerospace, tools and dies, surgical materials as well as the decorative field. PVD Brass is the only choice to make at present if one is considering the installation of brass grab bars.

In terms of my personal preference for choosing the Moen Brass grab bar, the Brass finish as well as the construction of the grab bar remains extremely consistent from one bar to the next. I have always inspected the grab bars which I install for blemishes prior to installation and have never found any blemishes or inconsistencies with the Moen product. This saves time and allows me to take pride in the work I perform for our customers. The Moen Polished Brass Grab Bar is available at many retailers and of course readily available through our website at http://www.mrgrabbar.com/Polished-Brass-Grab-Bars-Moen-s/103.htm

These polished brass grab bars come with Moen's SecureMount flange which provides the installer with added flexibilty during the installation process. You may have guessed by now that I highly recommend these grab bars. Two thumbs up for Moen's Polished Brass Grab Bars.

Mr. Grab Bar

SUCTION GRAB BARS ON MARBLE - NOT RECOMMENDED BY MR. GRAB BAR

2008-11-26T16:43:00.000-08:00

SUCTION GRAB BARS ON MARBLE - NOT RECOMMENDED . I often see comments on various sites recommending the use of suction grab bars on marble tile. I have had much experience with suction grab bars on a large variety of surfaces and DO NOT RECOMMEND THE USE OF SUCTION GRAB BARS ON MARBLE. Suction bars do work quite well on smooth clean non-porous glossy surfaces within a limited context. I always explain the limitations to the customer and describe the differences between suction bars and conventionally mounted grab bars. Both of these products are available at http://www.mrgrabbar.com/. With respect to the use of suction grab bars on marble, even if the marble is clean, glossy and well polished, it is slightly porous and the suction grab bar will usually fall off within 24-48 hours. Cultured marble (synthetic) is quite different and the suction bar will usually adhere quite well over extended periods. This important consideration is not conveyed to customers and quite often the retailer or internet dealer does not have the field experience to properly advise the customer what to anticipate with suction grab bars.

Suction grab bars, in particular the devices manufactured in Europe can be quite effective in certain situations provided the customer knows the limitations of the device and that an adequate assessment of the wall conditions is made prior to use. On the other hand I am seeing an increasing variety of inexpensive suction grab bars that are being offered by the mass marketers or online retailers. These particular products in my opinion are completely worthless and may do more harm then good.

Mr. Grab Bar

GRAB BARS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON'S DISEASE

2008-09-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

Grab Bars are Essential for People with Parkinson’s Disease
By: Howard Cohen PT
The symptoms of Parkinson’s often include stiffness (rigidity), slowness of movement (bradykinesia), diminished balance and progressively worsen over time. Symptoms often fluctuate throughout the day in step with the daily timing of medication. Unexpected falls are extremely likely and obviously have the potential to swiftly obliterate any progress that has been made in managing the disease process.
One of the most effective but often overlooked steps one can take against Parkinson’s Disease is the addition of grab bars in areas throughout the areas of a home where an unexpected fall is likely or where assistance is needed. It is too often that people wait until after a fall occurs before deciding to have grab bars installed. It is also quite common to have grab bars placed initially in only a very limited number of locations which essentially addresses the safety concern of the patient to a minimal degree. The entire living space of the patient should be carefully assessed and modified early in the game. In addition to the placement of grab bars, the removal of clutter, electrical cords and rugs out of frequently used walkways, and the installation of night lights are important considerations.
A large selection of decorative grab bars and a National Grab Bar installation network is now available at www.mrgrabbar.com. Mr. Grab Bar, inc., was created by a Physical Therapist to provide highly decorative grab bars and installation services to those at risk for falls.

GRAB BAR INSTALLATION - INSPECTION OF LOCATION PRIOR TO INSTALLATION

2008-06-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

The first objective step I take prior to the installation of grab bars is the assessment of the premises in which the grab bars will be installed. While I enter the home I observe the outside of the home to assess the mode of construction. Do the exterior walls to consist of wood framing, cinder block or poured concrete (the latter two in conjunction with wood furring)?
I try to assess to the age of the home and the condition of the home so I can better learn what to expect. As I enter the rooms or locations where the safety bars will be installed, I make a mental note of what is located immediately on the other side of the walls which I will be working on. I look for fragile objects on shelves, picture frames and other objects that can be easily dislodged with only minor vibration. I also look for the locations of water heaters, air conditioning units, electrical panels, etc. In some cases I will not install if these walls pose to much risk. I visually inspect the wall conditions and the integrity of the tile prior to commiting to install. I usually avoid walls containing tiles that are loose or rattle when lightly tapped with my fingers. I inspect the condition of the grout and the nature of the tile itself to assess the difficulty I might encounter when attempting to drill through it. Porcelain tile or Granite will require considerably more work and a different method of drilling than what I would normally use on softer ceramic tile.

GRAB BAR INSTALLATION - DRILLING THROUGH MARBLE

2008-06-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

Marble is relatively easy to drill through providing you use a sharp drill bit. Once I have decided on the location for grab bar placement, I mark the anchor locations with a dry erase marker using the grab bar as a template. Next, I score the marked locations with a carbide punch and soft mallet. This will prevent the drill bit from skating across the surface of the tile.
With marble tile I usually use a sharp or relatively fresh 1/4 inch glass and tile bit to make the initial hole and follow up with a 5/16 inch glass and tile bit. I tend to use 5/16 anchors in combination with toggles in many of my grab bar installations. You can skip the 1/4 inch bit if you desire but doing so does create somewhat more wear and tear on the larger bit. Marble of course can vary in hardness depending upon what variety of marble you are working with. In some cases dipping the glass and tile bit into a container of water or using a wet sponge every 2 - 3 seconds might facilitate drilling through a more difficult marble. When drilling through polished porcelain or granite I would most definitely use water to cool the bit.
When I am drilling and have passed through the layer of marble and have reached the backer board whatever it may be, I ease off the speed and pressure so I can slowly push through with as much control as possible. It is important to push through this layer very gently to avoid introducing an overheated drill bit to an unexpected obstacle which may lay in close proximity. My next step is to probe about in the holes which I have just drilled with a stiff wire probe. This device allows me to feel for structures or obstacles behind the walls which I can often identify by both sound and by feel.

Post your questions and comments.

2008-06-19T04:28:00.000-07:00

Mr. Grab Bar gladly invites questions and comments from our visitors with regards to grab bars and grab bar installation techniques.

Mr. Grab Bar

Welcome to Mr. Grab Bar's Blog

2008-06-18T20:30:00.000-07:00