I never dreamed as a young woman that I would ever be so in need of a good bar. Since the year 2000, a good bar is always nearby.Depending on how far your MS has progressed, you too may find yourself spending much time with bars. Back in "the olden days," a good grab bar was hard to find. The purview of plumbers, grab bars were few and far between. Now, we can rejoice, because you can find them everywhere.
Some are turned tight to fit your tub. Some, like the one in this series of photos (yeah a duplicate slipped in before I could "grab" it), need to be secured through fiberglass tub/shower stalls with drills and screws.
Decide where you need the bar. Don't be shy, you may need several. If you have medical insurance or Medicare, they will likely be covered. (Get a prescription from your doctor; keep all receipts--tax deductible) Measure twice, drill once.
I contacted my local MS Society and they just referred me to plumbers. (Again, thanks for nothing, Local MS Society.) Luckily, my assisted living facility has a fantastic "handy man." He will put a bar of any shape/size wherever I need it.
Top photo is the best bartender in Seattle!
Next: The bar that was too big.
Next TWO: Tools of the trade.
Next: Close up.
Last: TA DA! The perfect grab bar in the perfect spot.
The previous apt. we lived in had been rented by a senior citizen who had a stroke. Her son-in-law had perfect grab bars all around the tub. After 10 years, I needed them placed differently. It is important, for safety, to make sure you get the location of your bar just right. DON'T wait until you fall. What can it hurt to be prepared? It is no voodoo curse to get your home in order for that moment you never see coming.
HAPPY HOUR! OPEN BAR! GRAB HOLD!
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