An adaptable house should be able to accommodate a growing family as well as lifestyle changes. In this article, we will discuss some guides to make a handicap accessible bathroom, especially for those with mobility issues.
Guide to Adapt Your Bathroom & Improve Accessibility
senior in wheelchair photo created by freepik
When building a home, we use to anticipate spending decades living in it. Therefore, upon the building process we should aim to make it livable and adaptable in a sense that when we grow old, the house will still be accommodating and convenient for us.
An adaptable house should be able to accommodate a growing family as well as lifestyle changes. There are many ways to keep a home adaptable. In this article, we will discuss some guides to make the bathroom for the elderly adaptable and accessible to anyone, especially those with mobility issues.
Ensure the space is wide enough for a wheelchair to move around
A bathroom could be the smallest space at home, but it should be spacious enough to accommodate a wheelchair. The entrance door should be wide as well to allow the entrance of any type of wheelchair and other mobility devices.
Simplify shower access
Your bathroom should allow easy access to wheelchair users. Simply lowering the curb on the shower can enable this. Consider using a roller shower seat or fixed seat to achieve a more accessible shower for the elderly and handicapped. Shower seats should be within the height of 17 to 19 inches. Walk-in tubs with installed tub controls are also a big help for easier access.
Install grab bars in all areas
Walls in the shower area and tub area should have grab bars and easy reach to controls that are also near the installed grab bars.
Make the floor non-slip
Prevent falls by creating a nonslip floor especially in the shower area. Consider installing textured tiles or slatted wood over the floor to achieve non-slip flooring in the bathroom.
Provide good lighting
Good lighting will always ensure safety. Ensure that lights are positioned properly to create even lighting and avoid shadow.
Install a height-adjustable washbasin
An adjustable washbasin is a life-changing investment. This allows users to vary the height of the washbasin that enables versatility, independence, and better hygiene.
Achieving an adaptable bathroom can be expensive but is a wise investment that prepares your home for future lifestyle needs.
Images by ARIAN - Home Lift Supplier in Singapore and Malaysia
