Handicap Accessible Bathrooms - What Are The Options?



Posted: Wednesday, February 23, 2011

by Barry Redican
Showerbuddy

Ever wondered why we build bathrooms with shower stalls? I have. Sure industry players keep designing and marketing these fancy glass shower stalls but are they the best solution for your bathroom, or for you? Also why are we still installing a bath tub in most bathrooms? Today people are busier than ever, water is in shortage in most states and yet we keep installing tubs! It is time home designers and regulators stared catching up with people's lifestyles and resource shortages - i.e. water! The Associated Press reported that the government projects at least 36 states will face water shortages within five years because of a combination of rising temperatures, drought, population growth, urban sprawl, waste and excess.

A handicap accessible bathroom which allows you to just walk right into the shower stall because the floor is flat is the best solution for every bathroom, even if you are not disabled. This type of construction is cost effective and provides the best multi use options for you, family or visitors to your home. Imagine the major headache we all face when a family member suffers from an accident or illness and has a short term disability or if you suffered a stroke which left you physically disabled. How would you cope with getting yourself or loved one over the tub or into the shower stall?

If your present bathroom has a tub that you shower over or even a shower stall with a threshold lip to step over you could face major problems in your everyday bathing. You could invest say $10,000 and do a bathroom remodel. Yes you could buy a shower bench or shower seat to help but will this provide the best options for you?

Perhaps you already suffer some disability or mobility restriction. Using a shower bench, shower seat, or teak shower chairs can be dangerous as they often move and can become unstable on wet surfaces. They are always readily available and there are hundreds to choose from but be aware of those hazards.

Another option for you, particularly if you shower over the tub is a transfer system. These shower chairs actually transfer you over the tub to have your shower - in a comfortable seated position. Some have a tilt in space option that lifts your legs up as you transfer over the edge of the tub.

These units are all designed to be used with a care giver which makes the whole showering experience safer and more pleasurable for you. There is a wide variance in the prices you will pay for these shower chairs and it pays to look around at the various models.

There are also foldable travel versions but I have found these to be very unstable and for me I like the security and safety of a solidly constructed shower chair. Personally I would rather see all bathrooms built as walk in showers but if you are stuck with a traditional shower stall and tub then it is good to know there are options which will assist your accessibility.
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