I’ve always been really lucky that any house I’ve lived in, and any person I’ve lived with, has had a bathroom fit for our purposes. However, I am aware that for those that may rely on carers, have decreased independence or those who are getting old, or who aren’t well may need something that is completely built from the tiles up for them personally, or at least an adapted bathroom to allow them the independence they may so crave.
Don’t get me wrong, there are those who are able to live totally independent lives in their old age, with a disability, or reduced mobility but in order for them to live those lives, they may, and usually do, need some help along the way.
Generally, there are things around the house that can be adapted but personally I feel that bathrooms are the ones that require the most change and attention.
Typically, in a standard built house, there are four things that make up a bathroom; a toilet, a sink, a bath and some kind of shower whether it’s over the bath, or a separate unit. This is great, if you’re total mobile and independent. If you’re not, what kind of things do you think need to be added? You probably have the image of a high street store’s disabled toilet, which is fine, but what about getting into the bath, or getting into that shower?
If it were me I would want something that didn’t require me whipping my leg over the bath when it’s a struggle to walk. There are a few realistic solutions to this;
- One of those cool baths with a “door” so you can step in
- Getting rid of the bath altogether and having a walk in shower unit
- A hoist (really though, in a standard sized bathroom it’s unlikely you’ll have the room and they’re pretty clunky)
Or if you really want to go the whole hog how about a complete wet room? This can offer so much more in the way of safety as well as accessibility in the bathroom, and ultimately independence for those who don’t have much of a choice. Everyone deserves to bathe in comfort and safety!
*This is a collaborative post