If you or a loved one have limited mobility and are confined to a wheelchair, getting around your home can be a challenge. One area of the house that can pose an even bigger challenge than the rest is the bathroom. The bathroom is one area in our homes where we value independence and privacy more than anywhere else, so making changes to your bathroom to make it more accessible is important.
Here are some ways your bathroom can be updated to make life in a wheelchair easier.
Start with the Bathtub
Although it may be one of the more costly changes to make in your bathroom, getting in and out of the bathtub can be near impossible for those in a wheelchair—even with assistance. Likewise, if you have a bathtub and shower combination, the task can be equally challenging. By converting a bathtub to a shower, you can make getting ready in the morning so much easier and safer.
When you are ready to renovate your existing bathtub, also consider a curbless shower. Curbless showers allow wheelchair users to roll in and out of the shower. Likewise, consider installing a built in shower bench to make showering in privacy easier. Another great addition to a shower design would be a built in shelf at the appropriate height for easy accessible to your bathing toiletries.
Wheelchair Height Countertops
Another challenge in the bathroom for people using a wheelchair can be easily using the sink and counter. Many counters and vanities aren’t designed with the clearance underneath for a wheelchair. By remodeling a bathroom vanity to work well for those in a wheelchair, you can make the whole bathroom experience easier. This involves removing any underneath shelving so the wheelchair can fit underneath the sink. Additionally, it also involves ensuring the height of the sink is appropropriate for wheelchairs.
Entryway Modifications
One obvious, but sometimes overlooked change that may need to be made in your bathroom is the doorway to get into the bathroom. If the doorway is too narrow that can make getting in and out of the bathroom difficult for a wheelchair user. Likewise, the flooring in your bathroom and bedroom can make a difference. Going from tile to carpet can be challenging in a wheelchair, so making adjustments to flooring can be helpful.
If you’ve just recently been confined to a wheelchair, home adjustments and renovations can be an overwhelming undertaking. By focusing your renovations and home improvements on areas of your home that you can benefit from most, you can make that list feel much more manageable as you work through it. If your bathroom needs some adjustments, call The Bath Doctor today, we’d love to help you with your Baltimore handicap bathroom remodel today!