How to Remodel a Bathroom for Accessibility
A handicap-accessible bathroom is a must if a resident uses a wheelchair. A bathroom remodeling project to increase accessibility not only makes it easier to use the bathroom, it also increases the safety of the bathroom. Bathrooms present many potential slip and fall hazards. The bathroom accessibility features add a level of protection for those with a physical handicap, those with limited mobility and the elderly. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Evaluate the size and layout of the current bathroom. Determine whether the room affords enough space to accommodate a wheelchair. Expand the bathroom by cutting into an adjoining room if necessary.
-
2
Rearrange the fixtures in the bathroom for a better flow if necessary. Placing the sink, toilet and shower on one wall gives a larger area for moving through the space.
-
-
3
Measure the width of the door. A wheelchair needs a minimum of 32 inches to clear the door coming in straight, informs AdaptiveAccess.com. If the bathroom is in a hallway that requires the wheelchair to approach at an angle, you'll need at least a 36-inch door.
-
4
Replace a narrow door with a wider one. Remove the old door and its frame. Widen the rough opening to the selected width. Install the new door. You might need to relocate the light switch if it is right next to the door.
-
5
Replace a standard toilet with a higher style for better accessibility. Another option is to install a raised seat on a standard toilet.
-
6
Install a wall-mounted sink that allows a wheelchair to go underneath it. This takes away from storage provided by a regular vanity but allows for greater accessibility for a person in a wheelchair. Mount it at about 34 inches high for easiest use, suggests AHealthyMe.com. Also consider a shallow bowl because a deep bowl can cause an obstruction for the knees.
-
7
Hang mirrors at a lower height so that a person seated in a wheelchair can easily use them.
-
8
Assess the current shower or tub. A shower stall is ideal because you eliminate the need to step into a tub. A bench in the tub or shower allows bathing and showering in a seated position.
-
9
Install a hand-held shower head. This allows easier washing of a person with limited mobility.
-
10
Install grab bars in key locations for support: near the toilet and in the tub area. Install the bars about 33 to 36 inches from the floor, says AHealthyMe.com, and secure them to studs so that they can support the weight.
-
11
Add low shelving or cupboards for storage. This allows a person seated in a wheelchair to access the bathroom storage areas.
-
1
