Glossary of terms

It can be changed and used in different ways to meet different needs.

Changes made to a home or space to make it easier and safer for people with disabilities.

Creates bubbles in bath water for a relaxing massage.

Soft lighting or background that creates a calming environment.

A special material that helps stop bacteria and germs from growing.

A health condition that causes pain and stiffness in the joints.

Housing for people who need help with daily tasks.

A space with no steps or things in the way, making it easy to move around – useful for people who use wheelchairs.

Something that is made specially for a person to fit their needs.

A feature that uses a stream of water to help clean your body after using a toilet instead of toilet paper.

A material that stops bacteria from growing and helps keep surfaces clean.

A machine that dries the body with warm air after a shower or bath.

A person who helps organise care and services for people with health needs.

Using coloured lights to create a calming effect in a bathroom.

Long-term illnesses like arthritis or diabetes.

An organisation that sets standards for plumbers and heating professionals.

A long-term lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. People with COPD may feel short of breath, cough often, or have tightness in their chest.

An organisation that checks care homes and health services provide good care.

A background check that makes sure staff are safe to work with vulnerable people.

Products that remove bad smells.

Do-It-Yourself: tasks you can do without needing a professional.

A type of wall material used in homes and buildings.

Controls and buttons you can press with your elbow – useful for people who do not have strength in their hands.

Professionals with the skills to fit bathroom products safely and correctly.

A condition that causes muscle and nerve pain all over the body.

Designed to work well for a long time, even as needs change.

A strong bar that you can hold onto in the bathroom for support.

The material used to fill gaps between tiles.

A sink design with extra space underneath making it easier for people using wheelchairs.

A device that works without needing to use hands. For example, a hand-free tap uses automatic sensors to turn a tap on when you put your hands in the wash bowl.

A visit to your home to understand your needs and plan your bathroom layout.

A seat that moves up and down using air or fluid – helps get in and out of the bath.

Made for everyone, including people with disabilities.

A first meeting to understand your needs.

People who check that places meet certain standards.

Something built-in or combined, making things work smoothly. For example, a bath may have a built-in ‘integrated’ bath lift.

Giving reasons to show why something is needed, these reasons can help you receive money and funding for your bathroom.

A shower that is even with the floor, so there’s no step to get in.

A chalky substance that builds up on taps and tiles from water.

A shower with a low step which makes it easier to step in.

To move around or change your position.

A van that brings products to your door so you can try them at home.

Equipment that helps people move, like wheelchairs, walkers and rollaters.

A bathroom designed for people with mobility needs.

Modern useful features.

A condition that affects the brain and nerves, often making movement difficult.

A group of conditions that cause muscles to become weaker over time and can make it harder to move, lift, and walk.

Floor material that reduces slipping, even when wet.

A place where people who need help with daily tasks live and receive care support.

A qualification that shows someone has the skills for a certain job.

No steps or barriers, making it easy for people with disabilities.

A professional who helps people change their homes to meet their physical needs.

Controls that only need a light press to use.

A brain condition that causes tremors, difficulty speaking and movement issues.

Used to raise toilets to make them easier to sit down and get up.

Seats that can be raised or lowered automatically.

A thin barrier that gives privacy, often used in shared bathrooms.

An estimate of the cost for a job or service.

Seat positions that move back and forth, allowing you to find a comfortable position.

Renovation or upgrading an existing space.

Support for recovery after an injury or illness.

A place where people live and receive care, usually older adults.

The base of a shower that holds the water.

A feature that cleans itself, such as a toilet with automatic cleaning features.

A device that works when it senses movement or touch.

A visit to inspect a place before starting a project.

Short-term changes made to help with recovery.

Controls that keep water at a safe temperature.

Devices that stop water from becoming too hot.

An attachment that raises the toilet seat for easier use.

Help moving from one place to another, like from a wheelchair to a bath.

A bath with a seat that lets you sit in an upright position.

Heating under the floor to keep it warm.

A material that stops moisture from causing damage.

A waterproof, easy-to-clean material often used for flooring.

Cabinets or fixtures attached to the wall that save floor space.

Attached to the wall without touching the floor, like some sinks or toilets.

A bath with a door, making it easier to get in and out.

A layer that keeps water from damaging the floor or walls.

A fully waterproofed bathroom with no shower tray, allowing easy access.