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Bathroom modifications - Tip sheet

Bathroom modifications are the most common need in the design of a safe and functional space. They may be required due to accessibility or safety concerns.

Accessibility:

Size: A bathroom must be large enough to comfortably accommodate the needs of the individual. A standard accessible bathroom should allow for a turning radius of a standard sized wheelchair of 5 feet with at least a 32” pathway.

Shower: Decide between a tub or a shower. A stand-alone shower is easiest for those who use a wheelchair. This will allow for a shower wheelchair or a bench to be installed within the shower itself.

  • Make sure there is roll-in access to the shower or room for a transfer bench if using a tub.
  • Consider selecting a shower kit with doorless entry and without an enclosure.
  • Consider installing a sloping drain for easy and quick water drainage.
  • Consider installing a hand-held showerhead and/or a sliding shower head bar.
  • Add grab bars as needed for support.

Outlets and lighting:

  • Electrical outlets should be a minimum of 18” from the floor.
  • Counter top outlets should be no deeper than 21” from the edge of the countertop.
  • Install motion-sensor lighting or voice activated light fixtures.

Countertops and sinks:

  • For wheelchair users – 30-32” in height.
  • For those who stand – 34-36” in height.
  • Allow clearance space underneath the countertop and sink for those who use a wheelchair.
  • Ensure taps and drains are accessible from a seated position.

Flooring:

  • Vinyl or ceramic materials are best for wheelchair users.
  • Note: Grouted crevices in ceramic tile may cause a bumpy ride for wheelchair users.
  • Cork floors are good for those with fall considerations, but difficult to maneuver a wheelchair on.
  • Avoid using rugs or bath mats that stay down on the floor.
  • Consider a drain within the floor for easy drainage and clean up.

Grab bars:

  • Safety poles and grab bars should be installed where needed.
  • Install at all locations where transition from sitting to standing occurs.

Doors:

  • 32-36” wide for wheelchairs and/or walkers to easily move through.
  • A pocket door may create more space.
  • Consider spring-clear hinges to allow the swing of the door outward rather than inward.

Toilet:

  • Toilet height should be 17-18” .
  • Consider a raised toilet seat if needed.
  • A wall-hung toilet allows more floor space for wheelchair maneuverability.
  • Consider a personal bidet to assist with hygiene.

Consider a professional consultation on how to make your bathroom accessible.

Video Tours of Accessible Bathrooms: www.disabledbathrooms.org/accessible-bathrooms.html

Safety:

Safety issues can be presented not only due to mobility concerns, but also behavioral or sensory concerns. Consider these items in your planning:

Space:

  • Does there need to be an assistant in the washroom with the individual?
  • Does the individual become defensive when in cramped spaces?
  • Is sensory overload a concern?

Safety:

  • Scald prevention: There are products that will cut the water flow to a trickle if it goes beyond a certain temperature.
  • Slip and falls: Grab bars and safety poles can be installed where transitions from seating to standing take place.
  • Electrical: ensure ground fault interrupters (GFI) are installed in all bathroom outlets.
  • Install non-slip flooring (some flooring becomes incredibly slippery when wet).
  • Glass and mirrors: consider safety glass to avoid breakage.

Durability:

  • Consider commercial grade flooring and fixtures.
  • Anchor grab bars securely if you anticipate heavy use of them (add extra wood behind them prior to install).

Braddock, George, and John Rowell. Making Homes That Work: Planning, Design and Construction of Person-Centered Environments for Families Living with Austism Spectrum Disorder. Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Inclusion Press, 2013.