5 Tips For Renovating A Bathroom For Special Needs

As people age or circumstances change and people move into a new place, there might be the necessity to update a bathroom to accommodate a family member with special needs. Doing so may help people feel more independent and assure of their personal hygiene.

A custom bathroom design might be the best way to tackle this potential major project. It is always a good idea to enlist the help of experts.

Here are some ideas for a successful bathroom renovation that will make all the difference:

1. Increasing the size

   People with special needs usually need more room to navigate. Doors often need to be widened to accommodate a wheelchair or other devices. A width of 34 inches should fit most appliances, including a wheelchair. Levers are better than door knobs in these instances.

2. Shower stall with no curb

   It may be difficult for those with mobility issues who are in wheelchairs to get over the lip of a shower stall. If a curb is absolutely necessary, a rubber one could be installed to make it easier for a wheelchair to cross. To give enough room, ideally a shower stall should be about five feet in width by about three feet in depth. A shower seat that is built right into the shower unit may be helpful for those who have problems standing.

3. A hand shower

   A shower bar that is easy for those in a wheelchair to access would be the best option. Such a unit can be fixed to prevent the water from becoming overly hot and causing possible burns. The hand-held shower can work in tandem with a regular nozzle, if the person wishes to have both installed.

4. A user-friendly toilet

   People who have special needs should have grab bars installed on either side of the toilet. They should be about 36 inches apart. A toilet seat that’s a little higher would also suit most people, including those with special needs. Having the toilet about 17 inches from the floor is ideal.

5. Room below the sink

   A custom bathroom design could also incorporate space for a wheelchair to fit under the sink. There should be at least 27 inches of space under a sink for a wheelchair to be able to fit comfortably. The sink top should be between 32-34 inches from the floor.