Handicapped Options

Evaluating Your Bathroom Layout

Your existing bathroom layout is a major factor in determining what modifications are needed to make it handicapped accessible. Here are some key things to consider: Is there ample room to maneuver a wheelchair or walker? A handicapped bathroom should have at least a 5-foot diameter open floor space. Can the sink and toilet be accessed easily from a seated position? There should be knee clearance underneath for wheelchair access. Are the doorways wide enough for wheelchair access? Doors should be at least 32 inches wide. Is the flooring slippery? Tile or vinyl flooring should be replaced with slip-resistant materials safe for handicapped individuals. Ensuring that you have proper clearances and space to move around comfortably is crucial in an accessible bathroom design.

Installing Grab Bars and Handrails

Grab bars and handrails provide stability and support for disabled individuals when moving about the bathroom. Recommended placement includes vertical grab bars on both sides of the toilet, horizontal grab bars behind and in front of the toilet, vertical bars inside the handicapped shower or tub, and horizontal bars along walls by the toilet and shower. Grab bars come in various shapes, lengths, and configurations. Opt for corrosion-resistant metal bars with a non-slip gripping surface for handicapped individuals. Securely mount bars into studs in the wall with anchoring plates.



Improving Toilet and Sink Accessibility The toilet and sink are essential bathroom fixtures that need to be accessible for handicapped individuals. Some ways to improve bathroom accessibility include installing a comfortable toilet that is higher off the ground for easier sitting and standing for handicapped users. Switch out standard faucet knobs for easy-to-grasp lever handles. Choose a wall-hung sink with space beneath for a wheelchair to roll under. Insulate sink pipes to prevent contact with the exposed skin of handicapped users. Little touches like a toilet paper holder within easy reach also help enhance accessibility.

Showering Safely with a Walk-in Handicapped Shower

Stepping over a bathtub can be dangerous for those with disabilities. A walk-in handicapped shower eliminates this hazard for differently-abled individuals. Key features of an accessible shower include: Walk-in entry and zero threshold allow easy wheelchair roll-in access. Fold-down shower bench provides seating while bathing. Adjustable handheld handicapped shower head enables users to direct the spray. Grab bars offer stability when moving about the shower space. Focus on a slip-resistant floor surface to prevent falls. An optional roll-in shower wheelchair further enhances accessibility and safety.

Handicapped Bathtub Options for Limited Mobility

For those who still wish to soak in a warm bath, there are handicapped tub options. Some include: Install an exterior bathtub lift that lowers users into the tub for bathing. Choose a walk-in bathtub with a sealable door and built-in seat. Choose a transfer bench that fits over the handicapped tub edge for sliding in more easily. Jets, tub lifts, and other assistive devices can transform an existing soaking tub into a handicapped-accessible one.

Helpful Bathroom Remodeling Tips

​Consider these tips for your accessible bathroom remodel: Consult with an occupational therapist to evaluate individual handicapped needs. Research consumer guides on handicapped bathroom products. Hire an experienced contractor familiar with bathroom accessibility standards, including total bath remodeling, shower, and tub remodeling. Plan safety features like adequate lighting and emergency call buttons. Focus on an open layout and wide doorways for maneuverability of handicapped individuals. Select comfort height fixtures that are easy to sit on or stand up from. Invest in durable grab bars, railings, and non-slip flooring for the stability of disabled users. With some simple renovations and assistive tools, your bathroom can be both stylish and functional for handicapped individuals. The investment in an accessible and safe space promotes confidence and self-reliance.