Whether due to an accident, injury, or old age, when a family member becomes a long-term wheelchair user changes will need to be made to the home to ensure that the rooms are handicap accessible. One room that usually needs the most change to make it safe and accessible is the bathroom. Use the following tips to redesign your bathroom in order to accommodate a family member who uses a wheelchair:
Replace the Bathtub
A standard bathtub can't be independently used by a person who is in a wheelchair since he or she will not be able to climb over the side. An easy solution to this problem is to install a walk-in tub. These types of bathtubs have a door that opens so a person in a wheelchair does not have to climb over the side to get in. You may also want to consider a roll-in shower for your bathroom. No matter what you choose, it is essential that you install grab bars in the tub/shower area for safety and ease of use.
Change the Sink and Vanity
For the best accessibility, a sink and vanity should be wall-mounted without any cabinets underneath. This makes it easy for a person who uses a wheelchair to get close enough to the sink and vanity to use it properly. Make sure the sink and vanity are mounted high enough to allow for knee clearance. You may also want to install an automatic faucet that has a sensor so it is easier to use without having to reach for faucet handles.
Make the Toilet Safe and Easy to Use
Ideally, you should replace your current toilet with a wall-hung toilet that is mounted to the perfect height for your family member who uses a wheelchair. To make it easier for a person using a wheelchair to access the toilet, have grab bars installed on each side of the toilet to help a person transfer from the wheelchair to the toilet and back to the wheelchair.
Create Good Bathroom Lighting
A handicap accessible bathroom should have good lighting so the person using it can easily see everything. This is especially important if your family member is elderly and has vision problems. Make sure there are several sources of light to illuminate all areas of the bathroom, including the tub/shower. You will also want to contact an electrician to install light switches that are lower on the wall so a person in a wheelchair can reach them.
For more ideas of what you can install to make the bathroom handicap accessible, contact companies like Twin City Stair Lifts.
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