When it comes time to start thinking about our home’s bathroom accessibility, it’s normal to have a lot on your mind.
Maybe we are welcoming an elderly family member into the home, and we want their transition to be as comfortable as possible. Or maybe we’re thinking about bathroom accessibility for ourselves, and it’s become a complicated reminder of a new stage in our lives.
Whichever way we’re approaching the situation, it can come with a lot of other subjects and details to manage. It can even get to the point that the idea of improving bathroom accessibility feels like too much! It’s true that there are some homeowners who think it’s just easier to move to a home that already has everything done.
We’re here to tell you that’s not necessary. You can stay in the home you’re comfortable in and have bathrooms that are accessible for your family members. It just takes a combination of design, remodeling, and thoughtfulness.
To help you along this journey, we’re sharing five tips on improving your home’s bathroom accessibility. Follow these, and you’re sure to see how renovating a bathroom can improve everyone’s quality of life.
1| Walk-In Bathtub
One of the first recommendations we make for improving bathroom accessibility is a walk-in bathtub.
As a replacement for a traditional tub that can end up slippery and dangerous, a walk-in bathtub simplifies life for everyone. Traditionally these bathtubs include a side entrance and a bench seat so one can sit comfortably. Though they are known for their accessibility, they are also popular for how relaxing they are. Given that walk-in tubs frequently contain jets, they become a soothing spot to take a bath and unwind after a long day.
2| Accessible Shower
When considering ways to make a shower accessible, look for seating, grab bars, lower shelves for soap and shampoo, and a handheld shower. What’s more, it should have a low threshold that’s wheelchair accessible, as well as a non-slip surface on the floor.
Like walk-in tubs, walk-in showers make it simple for everyone to enter and exit without difficulty. It’s a terrific option for anyone who requires accessibility but doesn’t want to get rid of their shower because a seat can be added if necessary. Showers may be easily altered with several shower heads so that people with different levels of competence can utilize them.
3| Sit-Down Vanity
A sit-down vanity is another significant way to improve bathroom accessibility.
Everybody should have access to a vanity, and sit-down vanities make life simpler for people of all abilities. Wheelchair users may easily approach them and conduct their everyday activities, such as brushing their hair and putting on cosmetics. Because sit-down vanities work both for standing or with a designated chair, they don’t restrict access.
4| Open Spaces
While some improvements to bathroom accessibility need to be installed, others are more about a perspective. When considering a bathroom renovation, it’s important to make sure that the bathroom is open.
Instead of getting distracted by tubs or furniture, keep in mind how the space will be used. Will someone with a wheelchair or walker be able to get in and get out? How will they be able to turn and access the toilet, tub, or shower?
Answering these will not only help you with your bathroom accessibility, but it will also help create a more open-feeling bathroom, too.
5| ADA-Height Toilet
It is simple to include the ADA standard height, which ranges from 17″ to 19″, into any bathroom redesign.
Since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted into law in 1990, it has established significant accessibility regulations. The height of an accessible toilet that enables everyone to use it comfortably and keep their freedom is one of these guidelines.
Call Winstar To Improve Your Home’s Bathroom Accessibility
As you can see, making your bathroom accessible doesn’t require a complete renovation. Depending on your family situation, one or a combination of these ideas could be all you need.
To help you take the next step towards improving your bathroom accessibility, feel free to get in touch with the expert team at Winstar. We’ve been helping Maryland families with their bathroom remodels since 1994, and we’d be happy to work with you next.
