A Study to Determine the Need for Aesthetic Enhancement to Grab Bars

Abstract

This research discovers if there is or will be a need for either new designs or just a better looking grab bar for the aging consumer. Grab bars are safety devices used to support the weight of a person with limited strength and mobility. These devices are usually located in bathrooms for the handicapped. More Americans are nearing their retirement years and may want to retrofit their homes to be comfortable and safe. With the aging of America will this population segment have to retrofit their existing homes or will the homebuilders accommodate them by building new homes with better-looking safety assistant architecture? The current market is flooded with industrial looking and designed grab bars. Users are not overcoming their associated negative stigma of being labeled disabled. In performing this research, information was gathered and made available through conducting a survey with twelve of the United State’s largest homebuilders and builders of assisted living and retirement communities. These companies have the closest relationship with the aged. The outcome of the research illustrates: A) grab bars are needed in the bathrooms B) there is a market for a more pleasing design; however, that need must come from either the design firms or directly from the consumer or end-user C) When it comes down to what is important for the builder, it is first and then performance and looks closely followed by value. During the research process, this writer found that there are better looking grab bars available; however, they lack market penetration. The best way to improve market penetration will be through the voices of the consumers as well as from the increasing use of Universal Design.