Accessible Bathroom - the Senior-Friendly Bathroom

To be accessible, a bathroom must provide as much space as possible

Basic requirements for a senior-friendly bathroom

First of all, every senior-friendly bathroom should provide sufficient space. Age-related stiffness makes many movements awkward, so arms and legs may sometimes need to extend farther. Walking aids or wheelchairs require plenty of room to maneuver and turn. A senior-friendly and accessible bathroom should therefore be large enough to enter and turn around in with a wheelchair.

Safety is the next major point. Falls are among the most common accidents at home in old age. The risk is greater in the bathroom because wet spots can always occur on the tiles. Getting in and out of the bathtub or using the toilet also requires a certain amount of strength and coordination without aids.

Non-slip aids ensure safe walking and standing in the bathroom. Non-slip mats can be placed in showers and bathtubs. Bathroom rugs should also have non-slip undersides so that they do not turn into flying carpets when wet. Seating such as shower chairs or shower stools makes personal care more comfortable and is likewise secured against slipping away.

However, people with balance problems can also become unsteady on firm surfaces. Grab bars that are always within reach on the walls provide secure support. Grab bars and support rails are also useful next to toilets, sinks, and anywhere else where one needs to brace oneself.

In a senior-friendly bathroom, the risk of falling must be eliminated as far as possible.

In addition, all obstacles should be removed to keep the bathroom tidy, with everything stored safely. For people with visual impairments, it is also very important that everything has a fixed place and that nothing is left lying around that they could accidentally knock over.

It should be clear that glasses and other fragile decorative objects have no place in a senior-friendly bathroom. To minimize the risk of injury, furniture, sinks, and fittings with rounded edges rather than corners are recommended. It also hurts less to bump into a rounded surface.

How can using the toilet be made easier?

Using the toilet with limited physical abilities can be made considerably easier through the use of various aids.

A raised toilet seat is simply placed on the standard toilet, allowing for a higher seating position. This enables seniors to sit on the toilet from almost a standing height without having to bend down deeply. Such raised seats also have the advantage of being easy to remove and replace when someone else wants to use the toilet.

Using the toilet should generally not take an excessive amount of time, as sitting can impair blood flow in the legs due to pressure from the toilet seat. While this is not a problem for young, healthy people, it can be for older people with venous disorders. That is why raised toilet seats are usually made of soft, yielding materials.

Raised toilet seats are available with or without a lid, or as raised toilet seats with armrests.

If no raised toilet seat is needed, a padded toilet seat offers a simple alternative. These toilet seats made of soft plastic provide comfortable seating and fit all standard toilets.

What if a solution for using the toilet is needed outside the bathroom as well? Both in care facilities and in households with several people in need of care, it often happens that the bathroom is occupied. In addition, conditions such as incontinence may make it necessary to have a toilet close at hand.

Toilet chairs are the ideal solution and should be provided accordingly. Users can sit on a toilet chair just as they would on a normal chair. However, the seat has an opening in which a toilet bucket is secured. Toilet buckets can be changed quickly after use, while the chair surface can be easily disinfected - the toilet chair is ready for use again in no time.

A wheeled commode chair goes - or rather, rolls - one step further, as it can move freely on casters. If necessary, this can even happen while it is being used.

The simple alternative to a wheeled commode chair - particularly useful for hospitals and nursing homes - is a mobile support frame for a toilet bucket.

Toilet buckets are usually available separately, complete with a handle and lid, and can also be used alone as a bedpan in an emergency. The lid keeps unpleasant odors contained if you cannot empty it right away.

Incidentally, any standard toilet can be converted with a simple bidet basin for sitz baths or cleaning the intimate area. These plastic basins are attached to the toilet bowl as an insert and can be sterilized in an autoclave.

How can a shower be made safer and more comfortable for seniors?

In a standard shower, you shower standing up. However, standing on a wet surface can be risky for older people with problems such as poor balance or reduced strength. A fall onto the hard floor could cause serious injuries, such as the dreaded hip fracture. Ideally, the shower tray is set into the floor so that the shower floor is level with the bathroom floor. This means there is no threshold to step over when entering.

Some simple aids can significantly improve safety - especially in showers that have not been made accessible.

Safety shower mats are made of non-slip materials such as soft rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). On many models, raised bumps or grooves on the surface improve stability. Suction cups on the underside allow these mats to be securely attached in showers and bathtubs. Unlike the permanently glued anti-slip mats often used in the past, modern safety shower mats can be removed at any time. This also makes them easier to clean from all sides. Some TPE mats can even be washed in the washing machine.

Grab bars are available in many designs for use in showers and bathtubs, or for wall mounting elsewhere in the bathroom. It is important to choose high-quality materials such as stainless steel or impact-resistant plastic. The surface should provide a secure grip - for example, with raised bumps or grooves for the fingers.

Shower stools can be placed directly in the shower as stable seats. Non-slip rubber feet keep the stools securely in place, even when the shower is running. Height-adjustable models can be adapted to the users' height. Most shower stools can be adjusted in height several times. Especially if you want to make a small or narrow shower enclosure safer and more comfortable, it is a good idea to place a shower stool inside.

In care settings, shower stools with an integrated swivel seat are particularly useful. The caregiver can remain outside the shower and turn the patient on the stool with minimal effort. This makes care much easier, especially for larger or somewhat heavier people.

In addition to simple stools, shower chairs with armrests and backrests are also available. These chairs are naturally more comfortable, but they usually require more space than a simple stool. Shower folding seats, which can be permanently mounted on the wall, are particularly space-saving. When needed, they can simply be folded down like a cinema seat. A shower folding seat can of course also be installed in other rooms of the house as a space-saving seat.

Shower wheelchairs are water-resistant care wheelchairs with soft wheels that can be pushed into level-access showers together with the patient. Combination solutions consisting of commode chairs and shower wheelchairs, such as Behrend's mobile shower and commode wheelchair, are suitable for patients requiring particularly intensive care.

Do not rely solely on individual bathroom aids presented here. Combine mats, grab bars, and possible modifications to achieve maximum safety and accessibility.

How can bathing become relaxing and enjoyable again despite a disability?

Bathing should be a relaxing, pleasurable experience that requires no effort. Of course, things become difficult when getting into the tub itself becomes a risk of injury due to a lack of physical strength or stiff joints.

Various bathtub and shower entry aids and grab bars make getting into the tub easier and safer. Entry aids are often tubular structures that are attached to the edge of the bathtub. Adjustment screws and rubber coverings keep the support frame securely in place.

To reduce the step-in height of a bathtub, bathtub steps or step boards can be attached to the outside. Bathtub steps are non-slip pads that can often still be adjusted to the preferred height.

Swivel lifts are the optimal solution for wheelchair users, as they allow them to be safely lifted out of the seat and lowered into the bathtub. However, these are complex and not entirely inexpensive constructions. In any case, a safe sitting position in the bathtub must be ensured. A bathtub lift or inflatable bath cushion can be used to increase the bathing person's seat height. This prevents people in need of care from slipping under the water.

Since these aids work similarly to seat lifts, they are also suitable for helping someone get out of the bathtub. On an inflatable bath cushion, for example, a patient can be raised further upward by inflating the cushion more.

The simpler solution for safe sitting in the bathtub is a bathtub seat. Adjustable in width, such a seat can be hung on bathtubs of any size.

Swiveling bathtub seats can also be used for greater comfort and easier access for caregivers.

When bathing, weakened individuals risk slipping and ending up under water. A bathtub shortener helps provide support. This aid is held firmly in place with suction cups. The sturdy board can also be adjusted in terms of its distance, allowing the feet to be comfortably braced against it. It is therefore naturally also suitable for smaller people or children.

To prevent bathing seniors or people in need of care from hitting the back of their heads, safety head cushions can be attached to the head end of the bathtub. These head or neck cushions are made of soft materials such as TPE plastic and are held in place by suction cups. When bathing, the head can be comfortably rested against them.

Various modifications can make using the bathtub easier - more on this a little further down.

Remodeling a bathroom to make it accessible - what options are available?

Bathroom and shower aids make it easier to use the bathroom and its sanitary facilities. However, especially in cases of more severe physical limitations, it is advisable to have the entire bathroom remodeled to meet the needs of seniors or people with disabilities. In non-accessible bathrooms, wheelchair users therefore face challenges that people with able-bodied legs do not have to think about.

Example: Wheelchair user in the bathroom

The obstacles for wheelchair users begin as soon as they try to reach the sanitary facilities. Fortunately, many residential buildings now have spacious elevators, and public buildings are equipped with wheelchair ramps. Wheelchair-accessible toilets are also available in government offices, schools, and offices, as well as at train stations, airports, etc. The real problems arise when using bathrooms that have not been designed to be accessible.

There is often no room to maneuver the wheelchair comfortably through the door or park it next to the toilet. The sink is too high to wash one's hands properly from a seated position.

Wheelchair users of all ages need toilets adapted to their needs

In addition, there must be no cabinets beneath the basin so that there is enough space to pull the wheelchair close enough. Otherwise, wheelchair users would have to lean far forward or try to push themselves up to reach the sink.

Looking at oneself in the mirror above the sink is only possible from a wheelchair if the mirror can be tilted. The controls must also be installed low enough. The shower can only be used with entry aids and must have special seating options for wheelchair users. Ideally, wheelchair-accessible showers can be accessed with shower wheelchairs.

Toilet paper, towels, or care products such as soap and lotions should be within reach while seated. However, shelves, cabinets, and storage surfaces are also usually mounted far too high.

Many of the problems described here can already become obstacles when visiting friends. Naturally, the availability of wheelchair-accessible bathrooms also limits the choice of workplace for wheelchair users.

All these problems in the bathroom can be avoided if the room is appropriately converted. At the very least, the bathroom at home should therefore be made suitably accessible. Wheelchair users can usually receive contributions from nursing care insurance funds toward the costs.

Of course, bathrooms can also be designed so that they can be used equally by people with and without physical disabilities.

Many plumbing installers offer conversion solutions and have the necessary experience with accessible bathrooms. Some companies even specialize in bathroom renovations. Simply inquire with businesses in your area. Find out in good time whether you need to obtain a permit to convert your premises.

Converting the bathtub into a shower cubicle

If the bathtub is completely removed, the space freed up can be used for a shower cubicle with a level-access entry. Take the opportunity presented by such an accessible bathroom conversion to have the shower adapted for care use as well.

This shower offers plenty of space for wheelchair users

This allows the shower floor to be fitted with a non-slip coating. Seating options such as folding seats or a footrest to assist with washing can be installed directly. A towel holder within easy reach of the shower should also be provided - you should not have to walk through the room with wet feet to get a towel.

Fully glazed shower enclosures with shower doors also make work easier for caregivers. They can help with personal hygiene from outside the shower without getting soaked. The transparent enclosure is made of plastics or safety glass.

For accessibility, minimum dimensions must be observed for the shower area. To allow wheelchair use, for example, a shower must have a clear area of at least 1.5 by 1.5 meters in accordance with the DIN standard.

Incidentally, the floor of open-entry showers is slightly lowered to prevent water from running into the rest of the bathroom. Of course, old showers with raised shower trays can also be remodeled to be suitable for seniors and barrier-free.

Installing doors and entries for bathtubs

If the bathtub is to remain, it can be modified to be suitable for seniors by installing doors or low-threshold entries. Installing a door in an already installed bathtub is quick and hassle-free. The lower the door's entry height, the more convenient it will be to enter later. Bathtub doors are sealed completely watertight. One minor disadvantage: the bathwater can only be let in after entering and closing the door.

Bathtub doors are an excellent compromise for making the tub usable by people with and without mobility limitations alike.

A bathtub entry without a door can also be chosen. This option is certainly less expensive and makes it easier to enter the tub. However, it is then suitable only for showering and no longer for bathing.

Sit-in bathtub

A sit-in bathtub has a permanently integrated seat or at least a molded seat. This allows bathers to sit down safely and comfortably and means they do not have to carry out personal hygiene while standing.

Remodeling the toilet

Most toilets are relatively low - usually not even half a meter high. Why not have a wall-hung toilet installed at a higher position? This allows you to sit down from a comfortable standing position as you get older, with only a very short distance to cover when standing up. However, bear in mind that a wall-hung toilet cannot later be repositioned to a new height without having to tear down the entire wall.

The riser seats already described naturally offer an affordable alternative to this and can also be flexibly adjusted later. In addition, grab bars can be anchored to the wall next to the toilet.

A shower toilet with a water jet is extremely practical and hygienic because it automatically cleans the anus with a water jet. These specialized toilets normally also have dryer nozzles that dry the buttocks afterward. This eliminates the need to wipe with toilet paper, which requires considerable movement.

Naturally, a shower toilet must also be cleaned thoroughly. Although the water spray and nozzles are concealed beneath protective covers, dirt can accumulate around their edges.

Adapt the washbasin to individual needs

The washbasin must be secured especially well. Above all, users should be prevented from supporting themselves directly on the basin. For this purpose, it is advisable to install support handles on either side of the washbasin.

Levers are better than old-fashioned rotary knobs, which can sometimes be very difficult to turn. If the lever allows you to adjust the water temperature and flow rate with one hand, the other hand remains free to support yourself on a grab bar. For wheelchair users, washbasins must be installed lower. The space beneath the basin must remain clear.

Solving space problems

Very small bathrooms can pose a problem. However, even if only a few square meters are available, remodeling solutions can be found. You should reduce the size of anything that can be reduced and remove all furniture and objects that are not genuinely needed from the room.

If the building structure permits, you can also choose the sledgehammer approach to create openings in walls or combine rooms. Specialized construction companies and plumbing installers can certainly also be found for this thorough renovation of the bathroom area. Here too, please remember to obtain any required official permits.

Timely planning of an age-appropriate bathroom

It is best to plan the age-appropriate renovation well in advance. Even if retirement is still several years away, you should think ahead when renovating or remodeling your bathroom after reaching a certain age. It is advisable to design your home bathroom so that it can easily be adapted for seniors if necessary.

After all, it is almost impossible to predict when the first age-related health problems will arise and what form they will take.

Accessible bathrooms can also be cozy and beautiful

Apply for funding for a bathroom renovation

People who receive a care level due to a disability or age-related health problems may be able to have a significant portion of the bathroom renovation costs reimbursed by their long-term care insurance fund.

As a full bathroom renovation can be very expensive, we recommend checking whether you are eligible for funding.