As one of the most-used rooms in the house, your bathroom needs to be accessible for everyone in your household. This is especially important if you or a loved one has limited mobility. In today’s post, local bathroom remodeler DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Lakes takes a look at bathroom design considerations for people with limited mobility.
1. Room for wheelchair movement — The bathroom needs to allow wheelchair users access and maneuverability, which requires a large floor area. The doorway should be three feet wide to let a wheelchair through, with an open area about five feet in diameter to allow for easy turning. Provide at least four feet of clearance in front of fixtures, including toilets and the bathroom sink.
2. Barrier-free showers — Curbless showers allow access for both wheelchair users and people who have difficulty climbing over thresholds. Bathroom renovation contractors can make sure that the shower area is properly graded for drainage.
3. Fixture & vanity height — Fixtures, as well as the bathroom vanity, will need to be accessible from a lower height. Design a sit-down dressing table with enough clearance underneath so anyone in a wheelchair can pull in close. Look for showers with adjustable showerheads and universal controls that minimize arm movement. You’ll also want to consider raised toilet seats.
4. Levers instead of knobs — Traditional valves and faucets use a turning motion to operate, which can be difficult for those who have limited use of their fingers. Levers with long handles and minimal resistance are ideal alternatives. Choose fixtures that you can operate using a closed fist, as opposed to using your fingers.
5. Install grab handles — Grab handles provide support for those who have difficulty getting in and out of the bathtub or onto the toilet. Make sure you have prepared the floor plan first before deciding on where to place the grab handles.
6. Anti-slip tiles & mats — Slippery tiles can cause accidents. Look for bathroom tiles that are rated according to their anti-slip properties. The ideal rating is between R9 and R13. If this option is not viable, install non-skid mats in areas that tend to get wet, such as around the shower and tub and in front of the sink.
7. Walk-in bathtub — Walk-in bathtubs let users who have difficulty getting in and out of standard bathtubs enjoy the benefits of a full bath. They typically have a smaller footprint and can be installed as a replacement for a shower stall or a full-size bathtub.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Southern Lakes can discuss your bathroom remodeling project through a virtual appointment or in your home. Call us at (262) 923-8721 or use our online form to schedule an appointment. We serve homeowners in Paris, Twin Lakes, Brighton, Kansasville and Union Grove, as well as the surrounding communities.
