feature SENIOR CARE plumbing pipes, which can become hot enough to cause burns. The available styles in bathroom sinks have never been greater. Pay close attention to the depth and width of bathroom sinks to get the best solution for the users’ particular abilities. Determine the overall height of the cabinet(s) that will hold the sinks. It may vary based on whether the lavatory is installed under the countertop or sits on top. 8. Hand showers. Adding a handshower to the showering space provides flexibility for users of various heights and abilities. Some newer products, such as Kohler, WI-based Kohler’s HydroRail shower column, allow an easy retrofit as well as the option to increase the height of the showerhead. For remodel projects of even large-scale facilities, these columns will save time and materials because of their front-of-wall installation. 9. Bath tubs. The luxury of a deep, soaking bath is something that we may take for granted, but common mobility limitations can make it impossible. Key concerns in bathing are a safe transfer and comfortable bathing position. Numerous options from add-on chairs or seating platforms to flat, slip-resistant surfaces are helpful but can still limit a bather’s experience. Some new products in the marketplace,
however, include features that enhance the experience. For example, the Elevance walk-in bath by Kohler features a wide opening, chairheight transfer, and a wall that rises and lowers at a touch. Such tubs provide easy entry and exit that it is literally like transferring to a chair. Inside the tub, the necessary controls are within easy reach of the bather. The tub fills and drains quickly, preventing the chill so often associated with older-style accessible tubs. The bather is able to sit in a semireclined position and enjoy the benefits of a deep soak and hydromassage. The seat height allows a caregiver to easily assist a bather from a standing position. Some of these tubs fit the 60-inch by 30-inch footprint of the most common tub sizes, which makes adding one to an existing bathroom relatively easy. They are a great way to upgrade existing spaces or meet specifications for a new senior-living project. 10. Passageways. Older construction is notorious for narrow doorways and difficult-tonavigate passageways. While adjusting doorways
and halls to accommodate a wheelchair and its 60-inch turning radius requires a major remodel, this is one of the most critical changes for safety and ease of use. It is also beneficial to contractors and installers transporting furniture or replacing fixtures and appliances. Consider the number and variety of people—facility residents, caregivers, nurses, and family members— using the doors and halls every day. The most common scenarios for each space will help determine the ideal width and location of doorways. 11. Visual signals. Provide contrast with changes of colors or materials that grab attention and make the transition from room to room or from inside to outside safer. Color contrast is one of the easiest updates to make. Plan for a band of contrasting color at the edge of a transition in a floor. For stairways, include lighting that fully and evenly illuminates the steps. New technology offers options for placing LED lighting in a floor or in steps themselves. The same principle applies to countertop edges. A contrasting detail at the edge lets users confidently set objects down because they can see exactly where the edge is located. 12. Electronic controls. No article on designing for accessibility would be complete without mentioning the latest technology offerings. Digital controls are easier to use than turning a faucet on and off. Products such as Kohler’s DTV Prompt digital showering system place all controls in one easy-to-use touch-screen interface. Incorporating technology that enhances a user’s experience while eliminating difficult knobs, controls, or movements is key to any accessible space. With the ability to preset water temperatures and provide a variety of bathing experiences, these technologies are great time savers and an easy way to upgrade a space and differentiate a facility in the marketplace. As our abilities change, our living spaces must as well. In order to enjoy a space, we must feel empowered, independent, and safe. Designing accessible spaces for everyday use by people of all levels of ability is much less difficult if a designer keeps that in mind and approaches each of their needs thoughtfully.
Consider the variety and number of people using a facility’s doorways and hallways every day.
FOR LOWER CONSTRUCTION COSTS ON YOUR LARGE-SCALE PROJECT METALLIC BUILDING COMPANY gives you a clear choice for controlling costs on your large-scale project. ®
Our patented Long Bay System (LBS) requires zero on-site welding and half the bridging of conventional buildings. Proven overall in-place construction cost savings from: o Reduced foundation costs o Ease of erection
Diana Schrage, CAPS, CAASH, is an interior designer at the Kohler Design Center, Kohler, WI.
o Consistent pricing
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o Predictable delivery (6-8 weeks is common) ®
To get more information, a quote or an actual sample of our Long Bay System,
metallic.com/longbay 800-755-7339
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email us at longbay@metallic.com or call today. Mike Betz, our Long Bay System specialist will work with you to design the perfect building for your needs.
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