Bathroom Design Guide for the Elderly

1. Assessing Mobility Issues

Assessing mobility issues is a critical initial step in creating a fully accessible bathroom. To determine the necessary renovations, there are options available. You can either assess the needs yourself or seek assistance from a professional, depending on the extent of the required modifications.

Common Accessibility Restrictions

It is helpful to note the main accessibility issues in a bathroom include getting in and out of the bath or shower, sitting down and standing up from the toilet, reaching toiletries or towels, and accessing the sink, mirror or cabinets. These areas can be challenging with any type of limited mobility, joint pain and stiffness, poor balance, decreased physical strength, and even lack of manoeuvrability due to walkers or wheelchairs.

Self-Assessment

If neither you nor the person you care for have any chronic medical conditions, you can conduct the assessment yourself. To help you with this, we have prepared a useful checklist of accessibility considerations.

Checklist for Bathroom Safety Modifications:

• Is the flooring slippery or uneven?
• Does the person need assistance with sitting or standing?
• Would the individual benefit from grab bars near toilets, showers, or bathtubs?
• Would a higher toilet or sink be more helpful?
• Are the current grab bars securely mounted to the wall and capable of supporting the person's weight?
• Are there any trip hazards or ledges when entering the shower or bathroom?
• Would a shower seat or bath lift enhance independence and safety?
• Would a handheld shower head be easier to use?
• Which option suits the individual better and how much space do you have to install; a shower, shower bath, walk-in bath, tub bath, or wet room? we explain more about these options in the next section.
• Is the lighting in the bathroom effective and efficient?

Taking the time to answer these questions will guide you in making informed decisions about basic modifications for a safe and accessible bathroom.

Outside Assessment

Contractors with expertise in accessible renovations can offer advice on extensive modifications, including anti-slip flooring, wheelchair-accessible showers, and enhanced safety measures. They can ensure compliance with accessibility standards and regulations, guaranteeing peace of mind for individuals and caregivers.

Absolute Mobility provides a complimentary home visit. Request an appointment online here to schedule a consultation. We take great pride in collaborating closely with Occupational Therapists to assist individuals in reclaiming and maintaining their independence within the comfort of their own homes.

If you are looking for an Occupational Therapist, visit the OTPractice, a group of great occupational therapists that we work with regularly; https://www.theotpractice.co.uk/

You can also request a free home assessment from your local council's social services department. During the assessment, an occupational therapist will visit your home to evaluate your needs and recommend appropriate adaptations. It is important to be honest about your difficulties and challenges during the assessment to ensure that the recommendations meet your specific requirements.

It is advisable to have a friend or relative present during the assessment to provide support and assistance. If you need help with costs, then you need to contact your local social care work team to carry out the assessment
To apply for equipment or assistance from the council, you can visit this link: https://www.gov.uk/apply-home-equipment-for-disabled

2. Current Bathroom Layout and Space

Assessing the available space will determine if modifications can be accommodated or if compromises are necessary.

1. Start by evaluating the current layout and size of the bathroom. Consider if there is enough space to make necessary adaptations, such as installing grab rails, a walk-in bath, or a walk-in shower.
2. Assess the current fixtures and fittings in the bathroom. Determine if they need to be moved or replaced with more accessible options.
3. Check the accessibility of the bathroom entrance. Make sure that it is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or walker if needed.
4. Evaluate the safety features in the bathroom. Determine if additional safety measures need to be installed to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
5. Consider the lighting and ventilation in the bathroom. Ensure that there is adequate lighting for visibility and that there is proper ventilation to prevent moisture build-up and reduce the risk of mould growth.
6. Take into account the budget and available funding options for the renovations.
7. Seeking advice from an expert who specialises in accessible bathrooms can be extremely beneficial in making well-informed decisions that cater to your specific needs and take into account the constraints of your existing space.

3. Determine Adaptations Required

 As we age, mobility issues and age-related illnesses can arise, including arthritis, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's, hypertension, and MSK. These conditions can vary the needs of individuals from walking difficulties to reliance on a wheelchair. It is important to design a bathroom with intentional considerations to ensure safety and minimize hazards. Incorporating adequate space for easy navigation between fixtures is essential. Additionally, the inclusion of holding and support handles can greatly assist with easing sitting-to-standing transitions.

Evaluating Accessible Bathing Options

The cost of walk-in baths can vary, influenced by elements such as model, size of the bathroom, and any desired luxury features or accessories. Despite the potential cost, the benefits they offer in terms of independence and safety are invaluable for those who struggle with standard baths. Below are the wide range of accessible bathing options available:

Walk-In Baths

One of the safest options for an accessible bathroom is a walk-in tub with a low-entry threshold. These tubs have a door that opens and closes, making it easy to enter and exit without any effort. Additionally, they are equipped with safety features such as leak-proof doors, grab bars, and temperature control systems. The low threshold of these tubs is crucial in preventing slips and falls when transitioning from standing to sitting, as it effectively lowers the barrier between the tub and the bathroom floor.

For more information on walk-in baths click here to read our common FAQs.
View Range

Walk-In Showers

There are three types of accessible showers; step in showers, low level showers and level access showers. Step in showers are often the most affordable and flexible option requiring less modifications to services such as drians when being installed. Low level showers have a slight threshold or around 30mm, so are not suitable for those that use a wheelchair when bathing, but they are ideal for those that seen a decline in their mobility and find a deep step more difficult. Level access showers are barrier free and ideal for wheelchair users, eliminating the need for steps or ramps during bathroom modifications.
View Range

Wet Rooms

A wet room is an accessible bathroom design that eliminates traditional barriers and narrow entrances, seamlessly blending with the broader living area. It focuses on accessibility, safety, and comfort. They require waterproofing, drainage, and specialized flooring for a professional and correct installation.
Enquire today

Power Baths - Assisted and non-assisted

An assisted power bath is a type of bath that includes a power-operated device, such as a bath lift, to help individuals with mobility difficulties lower themselves into and rise back up from the bath with ease and comfort. These types of baths are often found in care homes and residential living accommodation, however are available in private properties too.
View range

A non-assisted power bath is a bath that is powered and operated by a remote or hand operated mechanism, providing support and stability for individuals to lower themselves into the water and rise back up again. It does not require assistance from another person to operate the bath.
View range

Bath Lifts

Cost-effective and easy for a handyman or DIY installation, bath lifts give you the independence to get into and out of your bath with ease. Bath lifts lower the bather up and down once they are in the bathh. These lifts usually come equipped with a handheld remote, putting control in the user's hands and offering a great alternative when a full bathroom renovation is impractical.
View range

Accessible Fixtures and Fittings

Use lever handles or touchless taps for minimal effort. Install a raised toilet seat or comfort height toilet for easier sitting and standing, and a grab bar for stability. Opt for wall-mounted or semi-pedestal sinks for more legroom and wheelchair access. Ensure comfortable countertop height and knee clearance for added accessibility.

Selecting Wheelchair-Friendly Toilet Seats

Wheelchair-friendly toilet seats are crucial for wheelchair users in an accessible bathroom. Adjustable wall-mounted toilets accommodate individual needs, while grab bars offer support for easier transfers. Integrated palm-operated or sensor flush systems provide convenience, allowing users to flush while seated.

Proper Installation of Grab Bars and Grab Rails

Proper positioning of grab bars can vary depending on the individual's requirements and the layout of the walls. In public housing, there are universal standards that need to be followed, while in residential settings, the placement can be adjusted to accommodate specific factors in the home. When installing grab bars, it's important to take into account the type of wall. Stud walls, for example, are not strong enough to bear weight, while wood walls can utilize wooden studs or backing for secure mounting. Concrete walls require anchors, and for steel stud walls, alternative methods must be employed. It's crucial to carefully select anchoring devices that are suitable for the wall and ensure that there is enough space behind the wall for effective anchoring.

Different handle designs accommodate various mobility issues. Place supports strategically whilst considering grab bar reach, angle and height preferences.

Securing Shower Curtains and Doors

Shower curtains offer a flexible solution for accessible bathrooms, particularly in more confined spaces. Made-to-measure options adapt to various structural situations, ensuring effective water management while conserving precious space. Weighted curtains are safer because they are designed to stay in place and prevent water from splashing outside the shower area. The added weight helps the curtain to hang straight, reducing the chance of water leaking onto the bathroom floor. For those requiring wheelchairs or mobility aids, an outward-facing or sliding shower door can remove barriers and provide the necessary space to manoeuvre.

Lighting and Visibility

Make sure there is ample natural and artificial lighting to eliminate shadows and enhance visibility. Install nightlights to make navigation in the dark easier.

Consider installing motion sensor lights that activate when someone enters the room. This eliminates the need to fumble in the dark and reduces the risk of accidents caused by reaching for light switches.

Choose light fixtures with bright, white LED bulbs that mimic natural light, as they are better for visibility.

Aim to have lighting sources evenly distributed throughout the bathroom, including above the mirror, near the shower or bath area, and above the toilet. This ensures that every part of the bathroom is well-lit and easily accessible.

Using contrasting colours in the bathroom can effectively draw attention to specific areas that may be difficult to see, including grab bars, lips, and steps. By utilising colours that contrast with surrounding surfaces, these important elements become more visually prominent and easier to identify.

Shower Seats

When choosing a shower seat, factors such as safety, comfort, shape, size, and whether they are fixed or adjustable should be considered. Seats with arm rests are preferable as they offer additional assistance and stability.

Flooring and Surface Safety

A perilous issue for elderly people in the bathroom is the presence of slippery surfaces which are often compounded by difficulties balancing.

''Falls occur in 1 in 3 adults over 65 and half of people over 80 will have at least one fall a year.''1.

Flooring in any bathroom should be anti-slip setting the foundation for a safer environment. Opt for materials with ease of maintenance and water resistance such as non-slip tiles, vinyl, or rubber flooring, which offer better traction even when wet. Avoid glossy or polished surfaces, as they can become slippery when wet.

Porous materials may lead to accidents; hence, alternatives that provide better grip under wet conditions are paramount. Porcelain tiles, when treated for slip resistance, present a durable and stylish choice that can offer the additional comfort of in-floor heating systems suitable for elderly users.
To ensure the utmost safety in your bathroom, we highly recommend Altro flooring. Altro flooring is renowned for its slip-resistant properties and undergoes robust safety checks. For more information about the rigorous safety testing conducted on Altro flooring, visit their website.
For inside the bath or shower there are various non-slip options available to choose from depending on the bath or shower:

• built-in non-slip shower trays
• textured mats or grips
• textured strips

By making the necessary modifications, you can greatly reduce the risk of falls and increase the comfort and ease of use for the elderly.

Additional Considerations for Bathroom Safety

The objective is to create a space that ensures a high degree of bathroom safety, so the elderly can bathe with dignity and autonomy.

Waterproof fall detectors enhance bathroom safety by detecting falls or distress and alerting caregivers or emergency services. They can be worn or strategically placed to detect sudden movements or prolonged stillness. Incorporating fall alarms provides peace of mind and helps seniors maintain independence while staying safe at home.

For more information on fall alarm options visit Which? Personal Alarm

It is important to consider the safety features of bathing options too. Adapted baths and showers often include remote controls to regulate temperature, handheld showerheads for added convenience, anti-scald valves to prevent burns, leak-proof step-in bath doors to prevent water spills, emergency drainage and fast drain capabilities for added safety, barrier-free designs for easy access, and shower seats for comfort and stability.

Different Types Of Support Aids

Once you've taken all the information into account, a handy tool to help with decision-making is a comparison table. It's a great way to see all the different types of support aids at a glance, giving you a clear picture of the options available. This way, you can easily choose the aids that best suit your specific needs.

Grab Bars

• Purpose: Stability near toilets and bathing areas
• Benefits: Grab Bars Stability near toilets and bathing areas Reduces fall risk, assists in balance and transferring from one position to another

Toilet Seat Riser

• Purpose:Toilet Seat Riser Increased seat height
• Benefits: Reduces the difference between standing height and seated positioning placing less strain on joints and muscles

Bath and Shower Seat, Stools and benches

• Purpose: Secure seating during bathing
• Benefits: Minimises standing duration, prevents slips

Walk In Showers

• Purpose: Secure seating, easy access
• Benefits: Wheelchair access, anti-slip flooring, built-in seating for additional support, grab bars, customisable

Shower Bath

• Purpose: Improving accessibility to bath and shower
• Benefits: Minimizes falls during entry and exit from bath with combined shower

Wet Room

• Purpose: Easiest access, no threshold bathroom design
• Benefits: Wheelchair accessible, reduced trip hazards, more space for carers to offer support

Walk In Bath

• Purpose:Improves access via a bath door, low threshold, slip reduction due to leak proof doors
• Benefits: thermostatic controls to prevent scalding, trip and slip reduction, seated bathing

Motion Sensor Touchless Taps

• Purpose: Hands-free operation
• Benefits:Reducing the need for twisting or turning of handles, eliminates the possibility of water overflowing if left on

Bath Lift

• Purpose: Assist individuals getting in and out of the bath
• Benefits: Reduces risk of slips and falls due to bath lifting user over bath threshold, easy operation, independent seating bathing, easy bathing adaptation

Anti-Slip Flooring

• Purpose:Improves grip
• Benefits:Reduces fall risk, assists in balance

Motion Sensor Touchless Lights

• Purpose: Lights switche on automatically
• Benefits:Eliminates need to reach and reduces slips or falls

4. Exploring Financial Assistance Options

Fortunately, there are several types of financial support and disability grants available to help mitigate these costs.

Understanding Grants and Benefits

Grants and benefits come with certain criteria that must be met to qualify. Here’s what you need to know:

• VAT Exemptions: If you have a disability or a long-term illness, you could be eligible for VAT exemptions on products and services for personal or domestic use, including bathroom installations and adaptations.
• Disabled Facilities Grant Eligibility: To qualify for this, one must meet several criteria, including property ownership, intention for long-term residency, and an income/savings assessment by the local council.
• Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs): Organizations like Foundations provide assistance in securing grants for major home adaptations, like creating accessible bathrooms.
• When considering the various financial options, it is advisable for individuals and their families to thoroughly research and seek comprehensive advice from their local authority or local HIA. It is important to explore every possible avenue for assistance in order to make informed decisions.

VAT Exemptions

This exemption allows individuals who are chronically sick or disabledto save money on products designed or adapted for their own personal or domestic use. It is important to note that you do not need to be registered disabled or eligible for any other benefit to qualify. This means that the elderly person in receipt will not have to pay VAT on items for accessibility modifications for their home if they are deemed eligible. To take advantage of VAT exemptions, they will need to provide the supplier or contractor with a written eligibility document; they can use the form provided by the government, which can be found here.

For more information you can refer to the Government website: Financial help if you're disabled - https://www.gov.uk/financial-help-disabled/vat-relief

The VAT exemption extends to the cost of installing these items, repairs and maintenance, spare parts, and accessories. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of making necessary modifications for individuals with mobility challenges but it is recommended you check with your supplier or chosen contractor.

In addition to VAT exemptions, individuals with mobility issues and disabilities may also be eligible for a grant to help cover the costs of home adaptations. For example, the Disabled Facilities Grant is available to assist individuals with disabilities in funding necessary modifications to their homes. This grant can help offset the expenses associated with creating a more accessible bathroom or living space, ensuring that individuals can maintain their independence and quality of life.

Overall, VAT exemptions and grants play a crucial role in making home adaptations more affordable and accessible.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-relief-on-certain-goods-if-you-have-a-disability

The Disabled Facilities Grant in the UK may help pay for bathroom adaptations such as installing a wet room or walk-in bath.
To be eligible for a grant;

• either you or a resident of the house must be disabled and/or have the intention of residing in the property for the duration of the grant period (typically 5 years, although this may be shorter, especially if the person is terminally ill).
• The individual submitting the application must be the owner, tenant or landlord.

The council will evaluate the application based on the following factors:

• The necessity and appropriateness of the proposed modifications in meeting the needs of the disabled person
• The feasibility of carrying out the necessary work, considering the age and condition of the property.

To apply for the Disabled Facilities Grant and find out the amount you may be entitled to based on your income and savings, reach out to your local council.

Click on the following link to visit the official government website: https://www.gov.uk/apply-disabled-facilities-grant

Home Improvement Agencies

What is a home improvement agency?

A Home Improvement Agencies (HIA) are non-profit organisations that help individuals find schemes to help with the cost of home adaptations. They can provide advice, assistance, and resources to help individuals make necessary modifications to their homes for accessibility and safety. HIAs may also offer information on grants, benefits, and funds that are available to help with home improvements.
For more extensive adaptations, such as converting a spare room into a wet room or widening doorways to accommodate wheelchair users, financial assistance can be pursued with the help of a HIA.

How can I find a Home Improvement Agency?

To find a Home Improvement Agency (HIA) in your area, you can start by contacting your local council. You can also search online for resources that list HIAs in different regions, such as Find My HIA Online.
Additionally, you can reach out to organisations such as Foundations, Turn2us, Charity Choice, Living Made Easy, Independent Age, and Money Helper for assistance in finding an HIA that can help with the cost of home adaptations. These organisations can provide valuable advice and information on accessing resources and support for making your home more accessible.

PIP

PIP stands for Personal Independence Payment. It is a benefit provided by the UK government for individuals who have long-term health conditions or disabilities. PIP is intended to help people with the extra costs associated with their condition, such as mobility aids, home adaptations, and other necessary support to maintain independence. It is designed to assist with the costs of daily living tasks and getting around. Eligibility for PIP is based on an assessment of how your condition affects your ability to carry out specific activities.

Can I use my PIP allowance to cover some of the cost?

Yes, you may be able to use Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to fund adaptations to your home. PIP is a benefit for people with a long-term health condition or disability who need help with daily living tasks or getting around. You can use PIP to help cover the costs of adapting your home to make it more accessible and safe for you.

5. Installation

With installations there are some options: You can do it yourself, find a local plumber, get a local builder or hire a specialist with expertise in both design and installation.
While some minor adjustments can be tackled with a DIY approach or local plumber, significant alterations should be left to professional accessible bathroom fitters. Choosing to make modifications to your home without the necessary expertise could lead to potential damage, safety concerns, extra expenses, and a longer wait for the project to be completed.

When hiring contractors, evaluate their experience in building modifications to identify possible risk zones in the bathroom. Consult with professionals who are DBS checked and specialise in bathroom renovations for the elderly.

Specialist Mobility Bathroom Fitters: Experts in Bathroom Renovations

When it comes to renovating your bathroom with accessibility in mind, it's only responsible to rely on the advice or expertise of specialist mobility bathroom fitters. These professionals understand the unique challenges faced by elderly people. With their experience and knowledge, specialist fitters can ensure that bathroom modifications are not only safe and functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

We are Absolute Mobility a trusted provider that are trained specialists in installing mobility-friendly bathrooms. With our expertise and a long list of happy clients, we have gained extensive experience in creating reliable accessible spaces. The team at Absolute Mobility are not only friendly and respectful, but we also have a deep understanding of the unique needs of homeowners seeking accessible bathroom solutions. We have an in-depth knowledge of everything you need to consider from anti-slip floor safety ratings to made-to-measure bathing solutions.

If you choose Absolute Mobility for your bathroom installation, you can rest assured that you are working with a team of professionals who are dedicated to providing the best service possible.

All of our specialist fitters are DBS checked and are specially trained on the products we use. They will ensure that your bathroom is not only functional and practical, but also aesthetically pleasing and tailored to your needs.

Local Building Tradesmen

Hiring builders for a disabled bathroom fitting requires careful consideration and research.

When hiring builders for a disabled bathroom fitting, it is important to look for professionals who have experience in creating accessible bathrooms. They should understand the specific needs of individuals with disabilities with the necessary certifications and qualifications to carry out the work.

It is also a good idea to use a local builder who has a great track record and obvious good reviews either through word of mouth or online.

Consider timelines and deadlines by discussing them with you builders before starting the project. Make sure that they can complete the work within a reasonable timeframe that suits your needs and budget.

Local Plumbers

When considering who will design and install your disabled bathroom, it is tempting to use a local plumber. Whilst a one man band or small local firm may provide excellent service when it comes to standard everyday bathroom works, they may have never installed a bathroom for a disabled person before. A plumber may guarantee the quality of their pipe work but not of the products they install. Did you know that extra care must be taken to ensure that a walk-in bath is completely level? The slightest imperfection will distort the door causing the seal and hinge to fail, this will invalidate the products warranty. This will inevitably lead to uncomfortable conversations with the plumber.Do Your Research.

Read reputable reviews

A good to place to start your supplier search is the Which? Trusted Traders website. Which? connects consumers with reputable traders who must operate to specific quality standards. Their vetting process is rigorous, assessing traders based on references, qualifications, and visits from a Which? Trusted Traders assessors. This guarantees that every trader meets the required standard. Which also offer free dispute resolution services for any customer of a Which? Trusted Trader to ensure that any issues are addressed promptly and effectively. Whilst it is unlikely you will need to use such a service, it is reassuring to know it is there when you are investing a significant amount of money in a disabled bathroom adaptation.

Compare like for like quotations

At face value a local plumber can probably offer a lower price than a specialist installer. However, you will probably not be comparing like for like quotations. A specialist supplier will have a team of experts used to designing bathing environments for disabled people. They will make design decisions tailored to the needs of the bathrooms user and probably specify products that will be easier to live with and more durable.

Try before you buy

Some specialists have showrooms where you can try different walk-in baths, level access showers and disabled bathing aids before you commit to buying. In some cases certain suppliers even have mobile showrooms set up in vans. This is really useful, disabled bathroom adaptations are a significant investment so knowing something will work before hand could save a lot of heartache in future.

Considerations for Elderly Individuals During Installation

• A collaborative approach involving the elderly in the planning stages is vital to address their preferences accurately. Recognising that physical limitations don't equate to an inability to make informed decisions is important.
• The selected supplier must be able to guarantee that the installation process will not hinder the occupant's manoeuvrability in key areas of the home.
• The supplier needs to stick to deadlines understanding the time-sensitive nature of bathroom renovations, whether due to sudden changes in circumstances or if it's the only bathroom in the house.
• There are no tools or trip hazards left around during the time works are being carried out and the occupant is aware of anything that could potentially be hazardous.
• Tools and equipment are tidied away in a safe place at the end of each work day.
• Workmen ensure safe ventilation
• Communication is good and the occupant is well informed with progress and any issues.

References

1. NHS Falls - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/falls/
2. Foundations - https://www.foundations.uk.com/
3. Turn2us - https://www.turn2us.org.uk/
4. Charity Choice - https://www.charitychoice.co.uk/
5. Living Made Easy - https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk/
6. Independent Age - https://www.independentage.org/
7. Money Helper - https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en