Our homes reflect our lifestyles. We decorate them to represent who we are and arrange them to meet our needs as we pass through various stages in life. It makes sense, then, to adapt our homes ready for when we are older and less able by future-proofing in plenty of time.
It is never too early to start future-proofing your home and the bathroom is a good place to start, explains Alan Kingdon, surveyor for Living Needs.
“As we age, our movement becomes more unstable. The bathroom should be easy to access but inevitably baths and showers can start to become obstacles. The main aim of any adaptation is to avoid falls.
Most importantly, showering and self-care can be facilitated with a level access shower area. Level access showering provides a practical and stylish floor surface, from dry to wet area that is seamlessly flat, therefore limiting tripping. You could also consider removing a framed shower cubicle and replacing it with an open access cubicle, in addition to installing a shower seat to provide extra support.
Installing thermostatic controls that combine hot and cold water at a pre-set temperature will avoid the risk of scalding. Slip-resistant floors are essential. Specially engineered soft shower trays are available that can be fitted flush with the floor – these are comfortable underfoot, give essential extra grip, and are easy to clean.
Your bathroom also needs to be well-equipped with aids for keeping steady and upright while wet. Even if you don’t need them immediately, it’s a good idea to work out where you could install grab rails near the toilet and shower.
Making your home safe for the future doesn’t mean clinical, unattractive designs – quite the opposite in fact; with specialist design and planning advice you will end up with a stylish, safe and accessible room to enjoy for years to come.
For the same cost as a few months of residential care, you can adapt your bathroom and remain independent at home for much longer. Living Needs provide free surveys and no-obligation quotes. Our specialist team will help advise the right mobility solution for you. With over 15 years experience in providing showering solutions, Living Needs completes all installations with all work being backed by TrustMark (the Government approved scheme).
To view an extensive range of bathroom solutions and mobility aids, visit the Living Needs showroom on Mill Road (near Rolle Quay, Barnstaple), or call for a FREE survey 01271 374600 www.livingneeds.co.uk