How do you make a small bathroom handicap accessible?

How to Make Your Bathroom Handicap Accessible Invest in a Roll-in Shower. Invest in an Accessible Bath. Add Hardware for Stability. Expand the Door Opening. Adjust Height of Sinks. Adjust Height of Toilet.

tundraland.com - How to Make Your Bathroom Handicap Accessible? - Tundraland

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If you or a loved one has special requirements due to accessibility, it’s important that your bathroom meets those needs to provide you or other users with comfort and accessibility. There are certain steps to take in order to ensure the space is easy to use, and most often these changes can be made quickly.

1. Invest in a Roll-in Shower

Tubs are very difficult to access for those in wheelchairs or those who have trouble walking. Creating a curb-less shower stall removes any barriers, allowing full access for those who cannot maneuver over a tub wall or curb. Make sure when renovating that your walk-in shower is large enough to accommodate a wheelchair or shower chair. Installing a built-in seat is also a good idea for those who want the option of sitting while showering.

2. Invest in an Accessible Bath

A safety tub is a bathtub that fills and drains after you’ve entered and sat down. Unlike a normal bathtub, the safety tub has tall walls and a swinging door, making it easy to step in and out. If a walk-in shower doesn’t appeal to you, these can be an excellent option. There are a variety of both functional and stylish hardware options for your handicap accessible bathroom. Often times you can add hardware to your existing bathroom without making major renovation changes. Adding the following features are a great starting point in making your bathroom more accessible:

Grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet

Removable shower head with a long shower hose

Easy push/pull or motion-sensor sink handles

4. Expand the Door Opening

Wheelchairs require a lot of space, so the bathroom door should be adjusted to make it as easy as possible for an individual to enter and depart. According to ADA requirements explained on Buildings.com, a single-user bathroom should include:

30”x 48” access to the sink

A clear circle of 60” or more allowing a wheelchair to turn

A center line of the toilet at least 16” from the wall

Although these requirements are for public restrooms, following them as guidelines for your home’s restroom can maximize accessibility and comfort. Depending on your needs, sink heights may need to be adjusted to make them easier to use, especially for those using a wheelchair. Make sure that sinks are low enough to be accessed from the seated position and include faucets that are easy to reach and operate. Removing under-sink cabinets and opting for a pedestal sink will allow an individual to get as close as possible. However, if an individual can walk but has trouble bending, a higher sink may be the best option. Like the bathroom sink, a toilet also needs to be accessible from the seated position. This often means a replacement with a longer base, or the addition of base beneath the toilet that would raise the unit several inches. If you have questions about bathroom remodels or other bathroom accessibility improvements, contact an experienced Tundraland representative today to learn more. Also be sure to save this infographic below for easy reference!

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How do I know what size wheelchair I need?

How to Determine Seat-to-Floor Height If resident is under 5′5″ tall, use a Hemi size wheelchair with a 17½” seat height. If resident is between 5′5″ and 6′2″, use an Adult size wheelchair with a 19½” to 20½” seat height. If resident is over 6′2″ tall, use a Tall size wheelchair with a 21½” seat height.

directsupply.com - How to Select the Right Wheelchair | Direct Supply

Wheelchair Features FAQ

Discover the right features to address your resident’s risk factors, activity level and acuity.

What are the different types of wheelchairs?

There are four different types of patient wheelchairs: transport wheelchairs, lightweight wheelchairs, standard wheelchairs, and reclining wheelchairs. Depending on your wheelchair, learn how to select the best wheelchair cushions.

What are the benefits of wheelchair seat back adjustability?

Seat back adjustability allows for better positioning for some residents. It also changes the Medicare code to a K0004.

What are my options for wheelchair armrests?

Full-length armrests provide more support for easier ingress and egress while desk-length options allow the chair to fit easily under most desks or tables. Adjustable and flipback armrests can be raised and lowered to better suit the resident.

What are front riggings, and which does my resident need?

Front riggings are optional front-mounted hardware that provides a place for residents to put their feet. Swingaway footrests support the residents’ feet while they are in the chair and rotate out of the way for easier transfers. Elevating legrests support the legs with comfortable calf pads and allow angle-of-elevation adjustment. Articulating legrests are similar to elevating options, but they extend during elevation for enhanced comfort.

What are my upholstery options, and how are they different?

Vinyl is easier to clean and more durable, while nylon is lighter weight and more breathable.

What does “dual axle” mean?

Dual-axle capabilities mean that your wheelchair can transform from standard to hemi height. Hemi height is about 2″ lower than standard seating. This allows the user to more easily self-propel and is also beneficial for residents shorter than 5′ tall.