The bathroom is a hazardous place for a disabled or elderly person, with its shiny, slippery surfaces and other hazards. When modifying a bathroom for an elderly or disabled relative, unless you are a skilled DIY expert, you will normally need to appoint a specialist plumber and bathroom fitting company to do the work for you. But what modifications do you really need?
Replace the Bath or Shower
As an elderly or disabled person, taking a bath or shower is usually a challenge. Those who rely on a wheelchair can’t use a traditional style of shower mounted over a bath, as getting into the bath tub is problematic. Elderly relatives who struggle with mobility may also find it difficult to step into a high-sided bath tub.
You can purchase special shower cubicles that are trackless and allow a wheelchair to go inside, together with accordion folding shower cubicle doors. Or why not opt for a bath tub with a door installed in the side, to allow your relative to walk in to the bath tub. These types of baths can also feature seats that are raised and ‘grab-bars’ to prevent slipping.
Manage Slippery Surfaces
Slippery surfaces are one of the biggest bathroom hazards, but you can attach strips made of non-slip material to the base of your bath or shower, as well as purchasing non-slip mats for the bathroom floor to prevent slipping on wet tiles. Always use mats with a rubber backing or use specially designed tape to prevent mats from moving and sliding.
Add a Modified Toilet Seat
It’s possible to find specially modified toilet seats from suppliers of Bathrooms in Widnes; these can make your toilet seat higher by adding height of 2 – 6 inches. Specially designed seats for wheelchair users have hand grips which make moving from the wheelchair to the toilet seat much simpler. Consider adding ‘grab bars’ next to the toilet for extra assistance.
Switch your Taps
Traditional style taps can be hard for those with weaker hands to turn. Consider installing lever taps for the sink and bath that can easily be pulled by those with mobility issues. This can reduce the chances of an elderly or disabled relative scalding themselves or becoming frustrated at the difficulty of using a traditional tap.
Use an Experienced Company
Always use a plumbing company who are experienced in fitting and adapting bathrooms for elderly or disabled customers. There are many companies in England who offer this service and fitting bathrooms in Widnes should always be completed by an experienced professional. Try to choose a company who can handle the supply and installation of your bathroom from start to finish, to avoid having to deal with multiple contractors and differing time scales.
