The important aspect of transforming a common bathroom into a handicap shower is to have the accessories and features that will provide ease to the handicapped user. These features will allow the person to bath without hassle and difficulty, which means that he or she will still have a comfortable life even with his or her disability. Nowadays, there are several accessories that handicapped showers should have, and these include the following:
Wheelchair ramps
A shower for handicapped must have a ramp that will allow the user to move in and out of the shower easily. Also, barrier-free shower enclosures are needed so that the movement of the wheelchair will not be impeded. If a shower pan is available, make sure that it does not have any barrier so that the wheelchair can be wheeled over it. Remember that there should be more space in a handicap shower than what a typical shower kit offers because a wheelchair takes up some space.
Shower pans
These will prevent excess water from staying inside the shower area, which will allow to keep the shower floor dry at all times. Be sure to buy one that is compatible with your handicap shower. Look for one with a drain hole at the center or at the sides with a sloping surface for free water flow.
Shower seats and transfer benches
These are important in providing a convenient surface for the handicapped to sit when bathing. These are useful for those who cannot sit on the floor or endure prolonged standing. Shower seats come in two models, ones that need to be installed on the wall and ones that are portable which only need to be flipped up when not in use. Also, these products should be water resistant and do not corrode because they will always come in contact with water. On the other hand, transfer benches add ease in transferring a handicapped into the shower seat. These should be lightweight but sturdy, and must allow easy storage when not in use.
Accessories
These include safety grab bars, non-skid mats, soap trays, taps, and long-hosed showerheads. If privacy is important for the user, a shower kit with the same features can be bought instead.
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