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Boomers: Living comfortably at home in style

(ARA), April 13, 2012 - As the years pass, Americans in the baby boomer generation are changing the definition of how they want to live comfortably during their later years.

Boomers are opting to continue living where they're already secure and happy - right at home. Sometimes with age comes a need for additional safety features in the home - but this generation doesn't want to sacrifice ambiance or style while incorporating these devices. With small upgrades and remodels, it's easy to weave safety products into the design of a room - without making it look institutional.

Safety is a top concern in the bathroom. There are many ways to make a master bath or guest bathroom socially sustainable for many enjoyable years. Here are some tips:

* Helpful handles - Grab bars near the toilet and in the bathing area can make older people feel more stable and secure in the bathroom. But too many grab bar styles look like they belong in a hospital - not a private home. TOTO Transitional Collection Series A grab bars in chrome, brushed nickel and polished nickel finishes with concealed hardware are designed to fit in with the beautiful aesthetics of a bathroom, adding safety without detracting from the look. Visit TOTOUSA.com to learn more.

* Slippery surfaces - Falling is a great concern for older individuals, so it's a good idea to eliminate any tripping hazards or slippery surfaces where possible. For example, remove rugs that could shift and buckle, and install rubber grip flooring inside the shower or bath for better traction.

* An extra bit of height - Taller toilets are easier for baby boomers to use because the height helps with balance. A toilet upgrade incorporating low water usage, easy-to-clean finishes and a soft-close seat will help keep a bathroom in style. The TOTO Legato One-Piece High Efficiency Toilet is universal height and comes with a SanaGloss nano-scale ceramic glaze, which prevents matter and bacteria from sticking to the surfaces, resulting in less needed cleaning.

* Accessible storage - Bending over to dig for a beauty product stored way under the sink can be tricky at any age. Consider installing pull-out drawers in lavatory cabinets, or putting storage items in wall cabinets at a higher level to reduce the need to bend for trapped products

* Spa-like shower - The shower is a place to relax, and baby boomers are more than ready to enjoy small luxuries such as a spa-like shower during the retirement years. One way to spruce up the shower is with the TOTO Transitional Series A Multi-Spray Showerhead, which rotates sprays between massage, mist, spray/massage and pause combos. Not only does this showerhead provide a wonderful shower experience, it also has a maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute - helping to save on water usage and money.

Many baby boomers have plenty of good years left living comfortably in their own homes. With small upgrades using stylish and socially sustainable products, it's possible to stay independent while sharing your home with individuals of all ages.