If you are planning a bathroom renovation and you or a family member has mobility issues, then you have come to the right place, as we offer some valuable information about features to improve accessibility in the bathroom.
Wider Bathroom Door Opening
Wheelchairs cannot negotiate regular door frame widths, so you might want to consider widening the door frame to accommodate wheelchairs. It isn’t a huge job for a carpenter to remove a door frame and replace it with a wider one; all you need is a new door. Renovating the bathroom is the perfect time to change the door frame, plus you can add some of the other features in this list.
Install A Safety Bath
Also known as an ‘accessible bath’, the unit allows a person with mobility issues to safely enter the bath. This minimises the risk of slipping and falling, which is always an issue for those with mobility issues.
Lowering Main Fixtures
The toilet and vanity might be a little high for someone with mobility issues, so if you are planning a bathroom renovation, there is a trusted bathroom designer in Woking or in your area that can help you create a more accessible bathroom. Choose a lower vanity and keep wall storage units low enough to be easily opened; a support rail next to the toilet is another must-add.
Non-Slip Rubber Bathroom Mats
These can be installed on the floor and in the bath in order to minimise the chances of slipping. The place to find such products is your local bathroom store, where you will find everything you need for your renovation project. There are rubber suction cups on the underside of the mat, meaning you can easily affix the mat in the perfect location and it will not move.
Install Support Rails
One near the bath and one by the toilet will help an elderly person navigate their way around the bathroom. Take a trip to your local bathroom showroom to see a full range of mobility and accessibility features that you can add to your bathroom.
Install A Roll-In Shower
A roll-in shower is exactly what it says, you can roll a wheelchair into the shower, close the screens and shower safely. This eliminates the need to leave the chair and even without any assistance, a person can manage to shower without the risk of a fall. There is no step, simply open the screen/curtain and you have full access. It would be good to lay down a rubber non-slip mat in the right location.
Order An Aluminium Walking Frame
They are light, very strong and height adjustable, ideal for a person with mobility issues. There are many websites where you can order this piece of kit, along with other safety accessories, which make for a safer experience. Find an online supplier and they will deliver to your door and check out the many other products to help those with mobility issues.
Bathroom Renovations
If you are a seasoned DIY guru, this will be a breeze; remember to list everything you will need, including tools and equipment. Don’t forget to turn off the water before you start removing fittings and with the amendments, your bathroom is mobility-friendly.
If you make these changes now, you will be able to reap the benefits when you are older and your body no longer works the way it used to. When your parents come to visit, they will definitely appreciate the modifications, which is one of the best long-term investments you will make.