INCLUSIVE BATHROOM DESIGN
Creating accessible bathrooms that can be used by all members of the household
T
he bathroom is one of the rooms in the house where privacy and dignity is craved more than anywhere else. The ability to independently use the toilet, bathe, shower and take care of any other personal hygiene matters behind closed doors is of vital importance to most people. Ill health and disability can hinder these abilities and the loss of independence in this area specifically, can have a hugely adverse effect on an individual’s mental wellbeing. Losing the ability to independently attend to your personal hygiene needs can drastically reduce a person’s quality of life, it is therefore of peak importance to ensure that a bathroom is designed with every detail thoroughly thought through to provide a comfortable,
safe space that allows as much independence as possible. There are constantly new products and innovative solutions being developed for accessible bathrooms, and OTs need to be knowledgeable and up-to-date in these developments to ensure they can recommend adaptations and products that will suit their patient’s needs. As well as this, an in-depth knowledge of the Disabled Facilities Grant will also help you advocate for your client to ensure they get the equipment and adaptations they need to improve their quality of life. Style and taste should be considered at every step, ensuring your client has a bathroom that doesn’t feel too clinical and still reflects their style choices where possible. We take a look at some of the key considerations for creating inclusive bathrooms that offer safety, promote independence for users and also take the user’s style and taste into consideration.
www.
-magazine.co.uk
27
