Consider These Top Four Items When Remodeling a Bathroom for Those with Disabilities

    PHILADELPHIA, PA, April 27, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Bathrooms have some specific challenges for those with mobility issues and those with disabilities who are in wheelchairs. There are challenges related to transferring from the wheelchair into the shower or bath, issues related to safety due to water usage and considerations about comfort and design.

Contractors take all of this into consideration when designing for a bathroom modification and often use these products from the United Disabilities Services' eStore to create the most successful remodeling project.

UDS has over 30 years of experience in helping people live independently and the Home Modifications Team has carefully vetted the products sold on the eStore. (https://estore.udservices.org ) Because these products are installed and used by its Home Modifications Department, contractors and consumers can feel safe selecting these products.

1.) Roll-in Showers: Consider a roll-in shower instead of a bathtub when you remodel because showers are much more accessible, in general, and specifically for wheelchairs. In addition, many roll-in showers have built-in shower seats and a soft "curb" that keeps the water in the shower and makes the showering experience safer. Contractors can also recommend a "wet room system" for wheelchair use, which is a tiled, built-in shower with easy access and high style value. Tile showers are trending up and give a bathroom a modern and elegant look. (https://estore.udservices.org/uds-60-x-48-5-piece-barrier-free-shower-unit-center-drain )

2.) Caregiver Half-Height Doors: Half-height doors give a caregiver the ability to assist the user in showering while controlling the water and keeping the caregiver dry. The closed doors create a water barrier, ensuring that no water runs out of the shower, thereby controlling the water splash. When the doors are opened there is full access to the shower, whether it is a roll-in shower, a walk-in shower or a full barrier-free shower.
(https://estore.udservices.org/caregiver-half-height-doors-for-mullen-base )

3.) Grab Bars: Whether in the bathtub or shower, adding grab bars can be a quick and simple solution to increasing safety while bathing or taking a shower. Grab bars come in many sizes and finishes and can be integrated into other elements, like soap bars and toilet paper holders, for greater functionality. The Invisia Soap Dish with Integrated Support Rail features sleek curves and practicality with a removable Corian soap dish.( https://estore.udservices.org/invisia-soap-dish-with-integrated-support-rail )

4.) Shower Seats: Increasing safety in the shower can be accomplished with shower seats that are attached to the wall and give stability while showering. Shower seats come in many styles, but the UDS eStore recommends the 26" wide SerenaSeat Fold-Away Brazilian Walnut model because it is exceptionally solid and folds down to a slip profile and features the beauty and resiliency of Brazilian walnut. (https://estore.udservices.org/serenaseat-fold-away-brazilian-walnut-shower-seat-26-wide-powder-coat-grey )

Contractors and consumers can get information from the UDS eStore when planning a bathroom remodeling project. In addition to home modification products, the website offers many helpful and informative articles. Contractors can register for an account which will give them product discounts.

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