People tend to take handrails for granted. If they’re there, no one really pays attention to them unless they need help standing up or going up or down a set of stairs. Generally, when there is a handrail, people use them and have no idea how valuable they actually are!

In this guide, we will explore how a handrail is beneficial to just about any person.

Handrails Help Prevent Falls on Stairs

We’ll start off with the basic reason for installing handrails. When one considers the statistics about falls, only having a handrail on a set of steps is not good enough. Without a handrail on both sides of the stairs, there is a greater chance of tripping over the edge. Many times, when an elderly or mobility-challenged person falls down the stairs, it is due to not seeing the edge of the steps. A handrail on each side of the steps helps the person get a better orientation of where they are in relation to the edge of the stairs.

Handrails Make the Bath and Shower Safe

For people who are mobility challenged or elderly, the bathroom can be a dangerous place. If a person has trouble with balance, steps, or even just walking, bad things can happen. One of the most common accidents is people falling in the bathtub or shower. To prevent this from happening, it’s best to install a handrail over the tub or shower area and one next to the toilet. That way, the person can grab onto the rail to steady him or herself to prevent such an accident.

Handrails Deter People from Slipping

Another way a handrail can help is to prevent slipping. If a person is on an icy walkway or surface, a handrail can help them maintain their balance. An elderly person who has trouble bending over to put on their shoes may be at risk of falling and injuring themselves. Installing a handrail next to the shoe rack can help them grab onto the handrail to make getting their shoes on easier.

Handrails Help Prevent Injuries From Improper Lifting

If a person is having trouble moving a piece of furniture, a handrail is helpful for either lifting it or helping to position it. If there are two people lifting the furniture, one person can hold onto the handrail with one hand to maintain their balance while helping with the furniture with the other.

Handrails Provide Added Safety During Inclement Weather

One thing a handrail will do is help a person to stay upright when it is raining or snowy. If a person is pushing a walker or wheelchair, a handrail can help them stay on their feet easier. If a person is wearing walking boots or other rubber-soled shoes, a handrail can help them maintain their balance and footing.

Handrails Provide Increased Mobility

The final benefit of handrails is that they provide extra balance to people who need assistance. For example, people who use a walker or wheelchair can stabilize themselves with a handrail. Not only that but there are people who have lost their legs or are missing some of their limbs and need a handrail to help support themselves. By having a handrail, they can rely on it for support when moving around.

Conclusion

Handrails are a safety device that is not often thought about when installed but are invaluable for the people who need them and those who care for them. There are many benefits to having a handrail that makes life easier for a lot of people. The next time your home needs a repair, consider a handrail since it will be beneficial to everyone.

Aussie Balustrading & Stairs is all about making sure any living space is functional, safe, and looking good. Whether you need quality balustrades and safety handrails in Perth or help with their installation, our team is here to deliver the job to you anywhere in Australia. Contact us today to get a quote for your new project.