Most individuals take it for granted for getting in and out of the shower easily. There are many people who for one reason or another cannot get in easily to s step-in shower or tub/ shower unit. The high step over of a walk-in shower or tub walls creates a barrier for those who have limited mobility.
ADL Solutions in Tempe Arizona have been constructing accessible showers (“walk-in” showers or “roll-in” showers) for several years. Depending on the needs of the customer and the structural characteristics will determine what type of shower is best constructed.
When designing a shower for someone with special needs, remember that this person may have bad balance, vision or mobility. A caregiver may also need room to help with the bathing process, so a shower space should be generous in size and includes room for and extra person, a wheelchair or a walker.
Here are some things to consider when planning an accessible shower.
- The larger the shower the better it is for the individual and caregiver. And if possible install a roll-in shower which eliminates any barrier issues.
- Place the shower control valves near the entry so you don’t need to get wet when starting the shower and letting it warm up.
- The use of a shower chair or bench is recommended this will take away any concerns of an individual trying to stand while bathing
- Grab bars are always a must have especially if the individual bathing needs help with balance and moving while using the shower.
- Enough proper lighting should be used special for those with low vision issues.
- If your home is connected to a monitored home alarm system, consider installing a panic button in the shower. Many can be switched out to a version with a pull chain. When someone falls, sometimes they can’t get up, so make the button or pull chain accessible from a prone position.
If you live in Tempe Arizona or surrounding areas feel free to contact the experts at ADL Solutions for a free evaluation email [email protected] or call 480-636-1816
Accessible Bathing Tips in Tempe Arizona Author: Valerie Watson
Most individuals take it for granted for getting in and out of the shower easily. There are many people who for one reason or another cannot get in easily to s step-in shower or tub/ shower unit. The high step over of a walk-in shower or tub walls creates a barrier for those who have limited mobility.
ADL Solutions in Tempe Arizona have been constructing accessible showers (“walk-in” showers or “roll-in” showers) for several years. Depending on the needs of the customer and the structural characteristics will determine what type of shower is best constructed.
When designing a shower for someone with special needs, remember that this person may have bad balance, vision or mobility. A caregiver may also need room to help with the bathing process, so a shower space should be generous in size and includes room for and extra person, a wheelchair or a walker.
Here are some things to consider when planning an accessible shower.
- The larger the shower the better it is for the individual and caregiver. And if possible install a roll-in shower which eliminates any barrier issues.
- Place the shower control valves near the entry so you don’t need to get wet when starting the shower and letting it warm up.
- The use of a shower chair or bench is recommended this will take away any concerns of an individual trying to stand while bathing
- Grab bars are always a must have especially if the individual bathing needs help with balance and moving while using the shower.
- Enough proper lighting should be used special for those with low vision issues.
- If your home is connected to a monitored home alarm system, consider installing a panic button in the shower. Many can be switched out to a version with a pull chain. When someone falls, sometimes they can’t get up, so make the button or pull chain accessible from a prone position.
If you live in Tempe Arizona or surrounding areas feel free to contact the experts at ADL Solutions for a free evaluation email [email protected] or call 480-636-1816
