Bathroom Bliss for Seniors

by Deborah Hammond

Occupational Therapist Safety in Design Consultant

Deborah Hammond is an occupational therapist with extensive experience in home modifications, disability access and safety in design. She has worked with home modification services and private builders on minor and major building modifications. She provides design advice on disability accommodation and design reviews on health facilities including hospitals, cancer centres, rehabilitation facilities and residential aged care. She lectures on safety and design for Consult Australia, and guest lectures at Sydney University School of Architecture and Australian Institute of Architects. She has also delivered environmental modifications training to occupational therapists in NSW.

1. Make all fixtures and fittings in the bathroom weight bearing for example, towel rails, toilet roll holders and vanity. This will give you confidence that you can hold onto anything if you get the wobbles.

2. Sheet the bathroom walls this will allow for greatest flexibility as to where grabrails may be positioned in the future. Don’t forget to tell the occupational therapist.

3. Visual contrast for all fixture and fittings makes it easier to see when your vision changes.

4. A pedestal vanity at seated height allows you to complete your grooming in a comfortable position.

5. Provide accessible storage. This could be mirror cabinet or a freestanding cabinet with a GPO for shaver or toothbrush.

6. Standard height toilet pan (390 mm). We tend to lose height as we age, and hips and knees may be replaced. Assistive technology may not fit over a higher toilet pan (460 mm – 480 mm). Lower pan height is also better for your bowel action, ideally with your knees higher than your hips.

7. A partial glass shower screen with no door will reduce water spread whilst allowing for easy access and less cleaning. If you do want a door, make sure that it can easily be removed and there is no edge on the floor on which you can trip.

8. Taps should be positioned at the entry to the shower recess so that you can check the water without getting wet. It also makes it easier for a carer or a support worker to assist as they don’t need to get into the shower with you!

9. Temperature set at hot water service. This is a more cost-effective approach for a domestic home.

10. Create a warm environment with good ventilation. You may spend longer in the bathroom so keeping warm is important. A heater lamp, heated towel rail and heated floor are luxuries you will love. A steamy environment can make you lightheaded. Make sure that the room is well ventilated. This will also prevent mould.