A top-to-bottom bathroom renovation provides a chance to implement universal design principles to make sure your bathroom remains safe, comfortable and accessible for you to use at all ages and abilities.
If you’re doing a major bathroom remodel, take the opportunity to widen the door to at least 32 inches across, have it open outward and use an easy-grasp lever handle.
Another alternative is a pocket door that can increase useable space as well as accessibility to the bath and other rooms. For existing doors, replace standard hinges with “offset” hinges to gain an extra 1″- 2″ in width when the door is fully open.
Make your walk-in shower comfortable and useable for all generations. A hand-held shower is a much better option than a wall-mounted shower head because rather than having a fixed, immovable source, you can bring the water to where you need it. Add a seat to make it easier to bathe when you’re sick, injured or otherwise limited in mobility.
What about those bathtubs with the doors? In theory, not a bad idea, but for the money, we strongly recommend going the shower/shower seat route. When your bathing is done, you step out and dry off, rather than sitting waiting for the tub to drain.
These tips for accessible bathroom design will help you remain safely in your home for as long as possible.
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