What Exactly is an Accessible Toilet?
Basically, an accessible toilet means that persons with limited mobility can reasonably use and access the commode. For persons in wheelchairs or using walkers, improving accessibility may require the installation of safety rails. For the elderly, a taller toilet may make the fixture accessible by reducing bending and making it easier to stand up after use. And in some cases, wall-mounted toilets may be necessary for the commode to be fully accessible. Basically, the toilet must be accessible to those who actually use it and that can vary depending on their exact needs.
How Does an Accessible Toilet Help the Elderly and Disabled?
#1. Reduces Risk of Falling While Transferring to Toilet
Without special grip bars strategically installed, a toilet is not accessible to persons in wheelchairs or using a walker. The safety bars need to placed on both sides of the toilet approximately 1m apart and solidly secured to the wall. The safety bars allow the person to transfer from the wheelchair or walker to the toilet safely. Without these safety bars, the toilet is unsafe and the risk for injury increases for anyone in a wheelchair or using a walker. In some cases, the bars may be built into the toilet and are also considered wheelchair accessible.
In addition, safety bars help make toilets accessible for persons with vertigo, arthritis, or issues standing up from a seated position. The grab bars provide additional support to anyone with mobility problems and are essential safety features when creating a toilet that is fully accessible.
#2. Reduces Strain on Back and Joints
For anyone suffering from arthritis or severe joint pain, getting up and off the toilet can be painful. Standard toilets are not considered accessible for seniors or anyone with mobility issues because they are too low and can lead to injury or falls. In most cases, simply installing a taller toilet makes them accessible for seniors. However, a wall-mounted toilet may be required in special circumstances so professional installation is recommended.
Professional Installation Strongly Recommended
To avoid leaks and ensure safety, we strongly recommend any new toilets be professionally installed. For the installation of safety or grip bars, it is vital that they are properly secured to the wall. In fact, if the rails are not directly attached to wall studs, they may come loose when in use.
Accessable Bathrooms is Perth’s exclusive senior and disabled bathroom renovation specialists. We can help make your entire bathroom accessible and all projects begin with a Free Safety Audit and 3D design.