5 ways to make your bathroom easier to use
We are all living longer and Government statistics indicate it’s likely we will be living in our own homes longer too. So, planning to adapt our homes to be more suitable as we age is a good idea. As we get older, our mobility can deteriorate. Loss of mobility and balance can make it difficult to wash and bathe. An accessible bathroom adaptation will help keep you, or your loved ones, living independently and safely at home, explains Richard Saunders, Level Access Bathroom Specialist, from Living Needs.
“Future proofing your home with specialist bathroom equipment and adaptations so you can live there longer doesn’t mean you your home needs to resemble a hospital or care home. There’s a wide range of styles and products to choose from for all budgets and tastes so you don’t have to pick comfort or practicality at the cost of style. Here are five ways to stylishly adapt your bathroom, which can make a real difference later in life:
Install a Level Access Shower:
A level access shower is a shower without a step that you could potentially trip on. It is a shower that is easy to access for everyone, the best option for most people. Installing a level access shower means you don’t have to worry about having to climb over the side of a bath to get in and out – also it is a more practical solution for wheelchair users, those who have a carer or could need a carer in the future.
Specially engineered soft shower trays are now available that can be fitted flush with the floor. So if you slip or fall you can be sure of a softer landing. They are not only warmer underfoot than a conventional shower tray, they feel wonderful, give essential extra grip, and are easy to clean too.
Other finishing options include slip resistant floor coverings, shower screens and attractive bathroom furnishings. Walk-in baths are also an option. These are specific baths that have a door or access panel and or bath lift that have a seat to help you get in and out of the water.
Thermostatic Controls:
Showers with thermostatic controls ensure that the water is kept at an even temperature, or within a certain range, by way of a built-in stabiliser to automatically adjust the water temperature. This prevents any possibility of scalding, or of the water becoming uncomfortably cold. Some shower controls are specifically designed to be easy to turn, grip and reach. They may also have preset dials and larger displays.
Shower Seats
Your level access shower can be fitted complete with a shower seat. A shower seat is as handy for a woman shaving her legs or when shampooing a small child, as for an older person being assisted to shower. Drop-down seats that fix to the wall should be fixed at the right height for you. Seats can also be built into the structure of the shower area.
Showerheads and Riser Bars
An adjustable shower pole or riser bar can be installed, which can vary the height of the shower head and hose length to give greater flexibility to suit various users or when you are seated. Showerhead spray options are also available, ranging from gentle to invigorating power showers. It is key to always ensure any grab rails, fitted in conjunction with a shower seat, are fixed at exactly the right position, and at the right heights.
Adaptable Toilet Heights
There are lots of different toilet suites and accessories available. If you suffer with back, hip or knee problems, or experience balance difficulties when sitting and getting back up, then a higher than standard toilet may be your preferred option. There are many different toilet heights and seat options available and our experienced team are here to help. The right choice will depend on the needs of you and your family
It is important to remember there are many bathroom variations or alterations available and ‘one size’ doesn’t fit all. Decisions should be made in light of the specific needs of the individual and their family. We will take the time to show you lots of bathroom and showering options to enable you to make the right choices, that suit you.“
If you are planning to update your bathroom, Living Needs provide free surveys. With over 15 years experience in providing showering solutions, their specialist engineers offer a full design and installation service and can advise you on a range of safe showering solutions and bathroom adaptations You can visit the Living Needs showroom on Mill Road, near Rolle Quay, Barnstaple, for further advice, product demonstrations, or to book an appointment call (01271) 374600 www.livingneeds.co.uk