How Can You Adapt Your Bathroom To Support Independence?

Many people are focused on maintaining their independence as they age, which is completely understandable. A government review of older people’s housing options in the UK highlighted the need for more specialist properties. 

But it also stressed the need to support those who want to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. 

In fact, one study found that 80 per cent of homeowners want to stay where they are and not have to move elsewhere. 

If you are among the many people who want to maintain your independent living for as much time as you can, you may want to begin by looking at your bathroom arrangements.

This is because personal care is one of the most sought-after at-home care services. It is understandable that people may need help in this area. 

Mobility issues or long-term health conditions like arthritis can make tasks like showering and bathing more challenging than they used to be. 

In some cases, a fear of slipping while in the bathroom can be enough to put you off using a shower or bath, for instance.

Therefore, choosing the right fixtures and fittings can not only allow you to carry out personal hygiene activities for yourself, but also make you feel much safer while doing so. 

 

What bathroom adaptations can I make?

While the right bathroom adaptations will depend on the space you have available, there are many options open to you. 

Here are some of the most popular choices to consider:

Walk-in power baths 

If you currently have a bathtub in your home, but aren’t using it, a walk-in power bath could be the solution. 

These baths are designed specifically for those with mobility issues, which means the ease of getting in and out of them is paramount. 

There are various walk-in baths featuring powered seats that can allow you to enjoy a soak in the tub without any concern about getting in or out of the bath. The door in the side of the bath will allow you to step into and out of it comfortably. 

You won’t need to climb over the side of the bath tub, which can be challenging if not impossible with restricted mobility. Once in the bath, the powered seat can lower you into the water – and lift you out of it when you’re ready to get out of the tub. 

Easy-access showers

In some bathrooms, there isn’t space for a full-sized bathtub. In these instances, a shower is a better option. But even showers can present a trip hazard if the tray is not designed with an older person in mind. 

Easy-access showers are designed to minimise the height of the shower tray and have an anti-slip surface to help you feel safe walking in and out. They also come with shower seats, enabling you to shower even if you can’t stand unassisted for long periods. 

Comfort height toilets

Not all toilets are easy to sit on – or to get up from if you have restricted mobility. Comfort height toilets are designed to reduce the distance required to sit or stand, making it easier to both get on and off the toilet.