Bathing can be stressful for many elderly people, not least because they lack the strength to lift and support themselves if they slip over while getting in and out of the bath. While walk-in baths are one solution, these can be costly as it may require a complete re-design of an existing bathroom.
This article looks at designs of walk-in shower enclosures, which may better suit an elderly person in the quest for a safer bathing solution.
Showers for the Elderly
Safety is key when it comes to looking at showers for the elderly. Shower cubicles must be easy access with doors that don’t stick, floors must be non-slip and there should be several mobility aids like grab-rails and a folding shower seat if required.
The beauty about walk-in showers is that they can be adapted to fit even the smallest bathroom and many made-to-measure shower designs can be fitted across the full length of an existing bath which, once removed, makes a small bathroom seem far more spacious.
Walk-in Shower Designs
There are a variety of walk-in shower designs suitable for elderly or disabled bathing, as seen in the comprehensive range offered by Premier Bathrooms in the UK:
- Compact shower unit – a corner unit perfect for small bathrooms. Choose double doors that slide fully to each side to give maximum access and a folding seat for comfort in the shower.
- Sliding door shower system – possibly the best option as the shower replaces an existing bath and offers easy access via large sliding doors. It has a low threshold shower tray, so no danger of tripping over and a comfortable folding seat to suit any size of person. Grab-rails can be added for extra security.
- Luxury easy access shower cubicle – this option offers “no door” access for easy entry and exit from the shower, plus folding seat and grab-rails.
- Half height door walk-in shower – for elderly or disabled people who may need assistance while bathing, the half height door shower (see picture below) can also replace an existing bath. Fold-up doors allow easy entry to the shower and another person can help the user bathe while remaining outside the shower.
- Full wet room – an ideal option for those confined to a wheelchair, but perhaps not suitable for some elderly people who may be prone to slipping, even on a non-slip surface.
Steam Shower Cubicles
People who have been used to a hot steaming bath may want to splash out and invest in one of the latest steam shower cubicles. These complete shower units cost upwards of £2000/$3200 and offer varying features such as hydrotherapy massage jets, a multitude of water pressure variations and, of course, the option to sit and relax, enveloped by a cloud of steam.
Elderly people in need of joint massage may find a steam shower unit ideal, plus they are perfect for those who love gadgets as there are lots of buttons to press, a bit like the latest electronic toilet bidet seats.
Best Elderly Shower
The best elderly walk-in shower design will depend on your budget and the specific needs of each individual. Get advice and a free consultation from a reputable company like Premier Bathrooms with plenty of experience in providing solutions for elderly and disabled bathing.
Sources: Premierbathrooms.co.uk (accessed Dec 29th 2010)
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Affordable Stair Lifts for the Elderly – Buy Used or Rent to Save
Walk-in Shower Designs with Seats for the Elderly
Helen Smeaton - Helen Smeaton runs a cycling and hiking business and is also a freelance writer and web designer. Read her profile for more information
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