Single Faucets – Single faucets eliminate the dangers of scalding that occurs with dual lever faucet handles.
Learn more about the benefits of free standing shower cabins. They’re great for those who want the benefits of accessible design without feeling like they’re in a senior home. These units are walk in models and many of them have built-in seating areas that give you the sauna like feeling.
Standard shower thresholds are 3-4 inches high with bathtub walls as tall as 14 inches high which is comparative to a hurdle when you get up in age. No more having to jump over the shower curb to get in. Curbless Showers – Curbless showers make your shower more accessible and they are ADA approved.The other option (listed below) is a curbless shower. They are a viable option for those seeking a bathtub where you can wash while seated. Walk in Tubs – Walk in bath tubs eliminate the jump over the tub threshold.Note: Bathtubs with permanent seats require grab bars. Shower Seat – 607.4 from the official ADA Guidelines requires a permanent seat at the head end of the bathtub or removable in-tub seat shall be provided.
You can install a vanity with extra counter space or even put a small table next to the shower that you can reach for when you exit the shower. Whether you have space on the vanity countertop, make sure you have a place to put your belongings that it easy to get to. Ready Storage – Having a place to put your change of clothes when you enter the shower makes things easier.Accessible Storage – Linens cabinets where the most necessary items are at arm’s reach so you don’t have to bend or reach for anything.Rocker light switches provide a larger surface are for you to locate. When you’re in the dark you don’t have to search for the light switch. Rocker Light Switches – Swapping out the old light switches that flip on with push button rocker light switches makes it easier to turn the light on.Lever Door Handles – Lever door handles that don’t have to be gripped and require force to open and close like a traditional door knob.This will provide added support when you use the toilet. Handrails & Grab Bars – Safety handrails and grab bars are not only used in the shower but can be used next to the toilet as well.For tile and wood floors, you can add a bath mat that you can step on when you step out of the shower. Non-slip Surfaces – You can place non-slip bath mats in the shower to add traction.You can consider increasing this distance by a few inches to a foot to make it easy to maneuver around the bathtub, especially if you are using a walker or a wheelchair. Walkway Space – Houzz contributor Steven Corely Randal, recommends 42″ of walking space in the bathroom.You can refer to this post for proper bathroom lighting instructions. Pairing vertical lighting with ambient lighting is the ideal combination. Ample Lighting – Making sure that everything in your bathroom is well lit will prevent any trips or falls.
Building code for handicap accessible doorways is 32″ when the door is 90 degrees so this means the door must be 36″ due to the thickness of the door and projections from the door jambs.
Below is a list of ways that you can make your bathroom accessible for senior citizens. Everything in the bathroom must be effortless to use and seamless in design. When designing a bathroom for senior citizens, you want to focus on eliminating barriers. Fact: 14% of bathroom injuries take place on the toilet.