Starting New or Starting Over |
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Today
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Tomorrow
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| Every bathroom needs these features. | When the health or abilities of family members
change, make adjustments to your bathroom. |
| Universal Design
– one bath on accessible floor level of home – wide doorways (36 inches preferred; 32 inches minimum) – extra floor space (60 inch turning circle between fixtures) |
Special Equipment Options
– fold-away or adjustable grab bars (coordinate colors with decor) – raised toilet – electronic toilet seat lifter – electronic faucet – adjustable sink – knee access under sink |
| Convenience
– hand-held shower head on adjustable slide arm – open knee space under lavatory counter – large mirror, extending to counter top – vertical lighting on each side of mirror – electrical outlets at counter height – easy-change toilet tissue holder – push-button shampoo and soap dispenser |
Bathing options
– transfer chair placed in existing tub (need hand-held shower) – tub with built-in transfer seating area at end – soft bathtub (an expensive option, but protects against injury from falls) – transfer shower (36" x 36") with built-in, adjustable, or removable seat – tub replacement shower (36" x 60") – roll-in shower (60" x 60") |
| Safety
– ground fault circuit interrupters on all electrical circuits in bathroom – anti-scald controls on faucets – non-skid rubber flooring – reinforced walls next to toilet, tub, and shower (for adding grab bars later) |
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Prepared by Mary H. Yearns, Associate Professor & Extension Housing Specialist, Department of Human Development & Family Studies. HDFS-H-307 March, 1997 |