When most people picture a bathroom that is suitable for people who have physical disabilities, they envision something similar to a wet room which is, in essence, a room with a shower located in the ceiling and tiled walls, usually with a drain in the middle of the bathroom and tapered flooring. Unless you have a lot of money, it can be hard to transform your bathroom into something like this, which can create challenges if you live with someone who has a physical disability.
However, there are accessories that you can buy for very affordable prices that can help turn your bathroom into one that is more suitable for somebody who has a physical limitation. You can also order complete bathroom suites these days.
In this article, five of the most common accessories are discussed so that you can determine which ones may be suitable to make your bathroom more disability-friendly.
Grab rails
Grab rails are a key part of disabled bathroom equipment. They can help somebody when they are trying to sit on the toilet or when they are trying to get in and out of a bath and are usually made from metal, but there are some other lighter-weight options that can be attached to the wall. Most options are removable and rely on suction to keep them affixed to the wall. If you have a family member with a disability, it is worth checking before they use the bathroom that the grab rails are securely in place to prevent injury.
Slip-proof mats
Slip-proof mats are another piece of equipment that you cannot afford to skip if you have someone living with you who has a physical disability as these can prevent them from falling over while showering or when getting out of a slippery bathtub. These are also usually washable, and so, for a low price, you can have a safety accessory that will last a long time.
Bath seats
Bath seats can be placed into bathtubs or in a walk-in shower. They will provide a place for your loved one or family member to sit as they bathe or to sit if they feel unsteady on their feet. If they require help with washing, this also provides them with somewhere to sit when you are assisting them, as you can move the bath seat around to give them a more thorough shower or bath without them needing to move.
Steps
Steps to help somebody get in and out of the bathtub are common and can be surprisingly affordable. They are usually made from lightweight plastic and are discreet enough to slip into a cupboard or place next to the toilet. They can prevent injuries when someone is getting in and out of a bath that has a lip.
Bidets
If your loved one struggles to keep themself clean after going to the toilet, you can install a bidet to the toilet rim. Some of these are made of metal, some are made from plastic, and they are very easy to clean and refill, which will help keep your loved ones feeling fresh and will not put a strain on them.
