As we get older we have to take into consideration and keep in mind that things we used to not even think about can become more difficult and sometimes even pose as a hazard. Luckily in modern living you are able to take control of places like your bathroom.
Of course safety and comfort are the most important things to consider but what does this mean when designing your bathroom for later life living. With Not Just Taps years of experience in the provision of senior and ability assisted kitchen and bathroom taps and showers, they have detailed a few points to consider when updating or even completely refurbishing your bathroom.
Turning the tap
Taps especially can pose an issue. Arthritis, impaired mobility or strength can make even the easiest looking tap hard to open. Not Just Taps specialise in a coordinated range of basin, bath, sink and shower controls with easy turn functions. These are gentle to operate, have soft grip levers, offer high visibility and have safety thermostatic valves to prevent scalding.
Understanding the limitations and difficulties caused by arthritis, we recommended taps from our medical collection that combines extended levers with simple ceramic disk valve technology. These easy turn taps have extended levers (minimum 6″/150mm) that allow the taps to be turned on or off with a simple pushing motion by hand, wrist or arm.
In addition the range of thermostatic concealed and exposed shower systems are created to suit all types of water pressure systems and come complete and ready to use, meaning you are provided with all the parts and are guaranteed to not scald yourself when bathing.
Grabbing hold
Of course the more stable you are the better. Grab bars can really assist in offering support while moving around. Good placement is around the toilet, sink and bath or shower area. Not Just Taps have a large selection in many shapes, sizes and finishes to suit your budget and requirements.
A slippery situation
In areas where water is present there is always the risk of slipping. There are numerous ways you can help prevent this from happening. Consider anti slip flooring surfaces and anti slip mats in your shower and bath.
Non slip floor mats with rubberised backing are also always a good idea. They will soak up the water but not move underfoot when you climb out of the bath or shower.
Shower or bath
Conventional baths can be a daunting prospect especially if your shower is situated over one. Consider a walk in bath or curb-less larger shower depending on your capabilities or future living requirements.
Should you keep your bath Not Just Taps have height adjustable stools to assist in getting in and out of the bath as well as safety seating to assist you once in.
If you do update or install a shower think about a shower seat. These are great for allowing you to relax and take care of yourself. Not Just Taps has many options for you, from built in wall seats to free standing seats. These shower seats can aid mobility and safety. As before Not Just Taps recommend installing grab rails to provide you with a secure and comfortable point to hold on to for both a shower and a bath scenario.
Toilets
Other than grab rails along the side of the toilet why not also consider raising the height of your toilet. You could either replace an old pan with a new heightened version or look at raised toilet seats which can be easily installed. Not Just Taps offers extended pans for use by wheelchair and disabled users and raised height pans provides for easier use by the less able.
Don’t ignore the finer details
Remember to also think of other safety functions, keep a phone close by and make sure your lighting is good. Furthermore, it is important to make sure all your toiletries and other personal items are always within reach. This could prevent a fall or other serious injury.
Here to help and advise
Not Just Taps aim to give you the best advice on your specific requirements. They are up to date with all required innovations and legislation and their non pushy advisers will help you through each stage of the process.