There are numerous disability-friendly products available on the market that can help disabled people when showering. Often or not it can be too difficult and hazardous to get in and out of a bath in the home but showering is much easier to facilitate and more importantly, it can give you the independence you desire when washing.

The range of obtainable less abled products means it is much safer now than ever before when showering as it eliminates the need to be lifted in or out of the enclosure. Space limitations and funds can cause issues when adapting your bathroom but the key is to seek expert help and assistance to ensure your daily routine is unaffected.

But what kind of products do you need, where can you find them and how much do they cost? Here is an informative guide to help answer all of your questions and make your showering experience as comfortable as possible. The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the house; carry out the following tips so the living space can be used self-sufficiently.

What products do I need?
Typical provisions which you need to make your life as stress-free as possible include shower trays, shower unit, grab rails, bathing seats with raised height, anti-slip mat and shower with controls. It is crucial you have the mobility support you need to put you and your family at ease.

Showers are available which can be specially built for user-friendliness but a top tip is to consider electric showers so the water temperature stays even. This can prevent accidents of scalding.

In terms of the shower tray, there are ones available which have a small barrier at the front edge to stop water from flowing out onto the floor but a ramped or level access is much easier. They can simply be placed on the existing floor and the water drains towards the back but ensure there is enough space around the ramp for a ‘run up’ and that if the chair needs to be reversed in, it can be positioned suitably.

If you need support when showering, a seat is ideal as you can perch on this when washing. Take into account:
• The shape of the seat for stability
• The height so your feet are easily supported
• A back rest supports your lower lumbar region
• An arm rest is useful as a rest and support but they should not be depended upon to keep someone in the chair.

Some seats fold up so the shower is accessible to abled bodies too.

What about maintenance?
Some shower heads need to be cleaned regularly to work as efficiently as possible. Most often or not it means the shower will need to be dismantled and descaled. You need to bear in mind if you cannot do this independently; you will need to ask someone to carry this out for you.

Financial Help
You can get help to assist you with the cost of adapting your bathroom to be disability friendly. Funding for adjustments is available via a number of sources and these consist of:
• Disabled Facilities Grant
• The Houseproud scheme
• Foundations e.g. The Act Foundation, Foundations,
• Charities e.g. Scope, Elizabeth Finn Care

Money shouldn’t be a barrier when it comes to altering the living space for your disability. Ask your local council for funding and put it towards the budget for modifying the home. Grants or loans are usually means tested so enquire to see if you qualify.

Further Information

This article was written by The Plumb Store; specialists in less abled products for the bathroom.