Jann,
I would advise against vertical bars in hallways. Each one would
be a signal to stop and a challenge to approach, work around it and
release as he goes by. The horizontal would allow him to move smoothly
and maintain momentum, while at the same time allowing him to use any
point along the span as an anchor point, if he needs more stability. I
agree with the comment below by KF Etzold to anchor the railing securely
to the studs behind the wall or to secure fastening in a brick or concrete
wall. All the best to you and your dad. -Geo.
Jann Bell <[log in to unmask]>
Sent by: Parkinson's Information Exchange Network
<[log in to unmask]>
03/16/05 01:47 AM
Please respond to
Parkinson's Information Exchange Network <[log in to unmask]>
To
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Subject
Re: Advice on orientation of grab bars
Thanks for your advice. While I understand the utility of the horizontal,
I was wondering if the vertical orientation might help if he felt the need
to pull himself forward. I appreciate your input. I am trying to cover all
eventualities and that probably isn't very realistic.
Jann cg Dad, Jack
KF Etzold <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
Jann:
It is not completely clear what you need. If he needs support on his way
to
the bathroom the thing to do is to install a horizontal railing along the
wall. Nursing homes and Assisted living places typically have such
railings
along the hallways so people can support and balance themselves while
walking. If I understood correctly that is what you need. The railing
should be about table height or slightly higher and it could be the same
wooden type you find on the side of steps. To be sturdy enough it must be
mounted to the 2 x 4 studs if it is in a house. On a cement or brick wall
sturdy anchors must be used.
K. F. Etzold cg Carline
Jann Bell
NET> cc:
Sent by: Subject: Advice on orientation of grab bars
"Parkinson's
Information Exchange
Network"
toronto.ca>
03/14/2005 07:43 PM
Please respond to
"Parkinson's
Information Exchange
Network"
I recently had some very sturdy grab bars installed in the shower/tub for
my Dad (78 year old Parkie). They have been an extremely good way to
enhance his safety.
He has recently started to get up during the night to transverse a short
hallway to the water closet. He never remembers to take his walker. I'd
like to put in some more grab bars to help him along on this short trip,
but have no idea which way would be best for a PD person who is using grab
bars to steady his walk, or helping him pull himself along, or? Should the
bars be horizontal or vertical or should there be a combination of both?
What is the best way to determine the proper height of the bars or is that
determined by how they are going to be used (help to pull him along, act
as
support as in leaning on them, etc). My Dad is a stooped 6'2".
I would really appreciate advice from someone who has used grab bars in
this manner if possible.
Any information or a point in the direction of information would be so
much
appreciated. I think he sort of forgets his situation when he wakes up in
the middle night and just kind of takes off for the bathroom. The hallway
light is always left on.
Thanks,
Jann Bell
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