With slippery surfaces and tight spaces, bathrooms can be a dangerous place for individuals with limited mobility. Creating a safe and comfortable bathing environment for them is essential and can be achieved with the installation of a safety shower. In this article, we take a look at the different types of accessible showers and how they can benefit you or a loved one who struggles with physical limitations.
Understanding Safety Showers
A safety shower, also known as an accessible shower, are designed to provide a safe, convenient, and comfortable bathing experience to those with mobility challenges. These showers typically come with ample space, grab bars, shower benches or seats, and non-slip surfaces to ensure the safety of all users. In addition, users will be able to easily access controls, soap, and shampoo without straining or assistance.
Types of Safety Showers
There are various types of accessible showers to accommodate different needs, mobility levels, and environments. Here are the different shower designs and their use cases:
Walk-in Showers
These showers have a low to no threshold to allow easy entry without needing to step over a high barrier. They often have non-slip flooring and grab bars to provide stability. Read more about how to choose the right shower grab bar on our blog.
Roll-in Showers
A type of barrier-free shower, roll-in showers are wheelchair accessible showers that have wide entrances and plenty of space to accommodate the wheelchair and a caregiver. The person in the wheelchair can remain in the chair while showering.
Transfer Showers
Another type of barrier-free shower, these showers are designed to support an individual who can transfer from a walker or wheelchair to the shower bench or shower chair. Transfer showers cannot accommodate a wheelchair, but they do have shower safety bars.
Pro Tip: The American with Disabilities Act stipulates that any public or commercial building must comply with ADA requirements and be accessible to those with disabilities. ADA-compliant showers have wide openings, low thresholds, grab bars, and built-in shower seating.
Key Features of Safety Showers
Safety showers come with various features designed to enhance the safety and usability of individuals with disabilities. This section covers some key features to look for.
- Commodes and Raised Toilet Seats – While not a part of a shower, commodes and raised toilet seats play an essential role in bathroom safety. A raised toilet seat provides more height, reducing the pressure on arthritic joints and weak muscles. Read more about how to clean a commode bowl on our blog.
- Grab Bars and Safety Bars for the Bathroom – Those with limited mobility can struggle with balance, so installing safety bars for the bathroom can support them and help maintain their stability.
- Shower Benches and Shower Chairs – Many accessible showers include built-in or fold-down shower seats or benches so that users can sit comfortably while bathing. Learn what to look for in a shower bench with our handy guide for seniors.
- Shower Seat Grab Bars – Shower safety bars offer support to users while entering, exiting, or moving within the shower.
- Shower Base and Drain Location – The floor of an accessible shower should be sloped toward the drain to ensure proper water flow and prevent standing water. The drain should be positioned and designed to avoid creating tripping hazards and debris buildup.
Benefits of A Walk In Barrier Free Showers
Safety showers can significantly improve the comfort, safety, and quality of life for individuals with mobility challenges. The following are some of the key benefits of installing a walk in shower in your home:
- Increased Safety – Improving bathroom safety reduces the risk of falls and injuries.
- Enhanced Independence – An accessible shower ensures individuals with mobility challenges can perform personal hygiene tasks independently without relying on caregivers.
- Comfort and Convenience – Safety showers provide a more comfortable and convenient bathing experience for those with physical limitations.
- Adaptability – These showers are suitable for various home layouts and user needs and can be customized to fit certain spaces.
Design and Installation Considerations
The following are some important factors to consider when designing and installing a barrier free shower in your home:
- Shower Designs: Explore different design options that cater to various needs.
- Single-Piece and Multi-Piece Showers: A single-piece shower is a single, seamless unit that is easy to clean but can be difficult to install. A multi-piece shower is constructed in sections that fit together and are easier to install but require more upkeep to maintain cleanliness.
- Installation Time: Basic installations can take anywhere from one to three days while custom installations can take up to a week. A full bathroom remodel can take upwards of three weeks to complete.
- Customizable Features: Along with necessary safety features, accessible showers can be personalized with things like wall patterns and colors to fit the design aesthetic of your bathroom.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the continued longevity and safety of accessible showers. Here are some tips on how to maintain and care for your safety shower:
- Regular Cleaning – Clean non-slip or textured floors regularly to prevent buildup of soap scum and grime that can reduce traction. Wipe down shower seats and grab bars to prevent mold and bacteria buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage finishes and surfaces.
- Routine Inspections – Have a professional perform routine inspections to check for wear and tear of any safety features or areas of the shower.
- Professional Servicing – As soon as you become aware, call a professional to replace or repair any damaged shower sections or safety features.
Expert Tips for Choosing a Safety Walk In Shower
With a variety of barrier free showers out there, it’s important to properly research the available options. Before buying one, here are a few things to consider:
- Assessing Needs – Consider the user’s mobility requirements and the type of mobility aide they use. This will help determine the size of the shower that’s needed.
- Space Availability – Consider the size and layout of the bathroom, which also helps determine the size of the shower.
- Supplier Reputation – Make sure to research the suppliers of the access ramps you are considering. Choose a reliable brand and supplier. Check customer reviews and consider the quality of the customer service since you’ll rely on them for installation and maintenance.
- Customization Options – Safety showers can be customized with things like built-in seats and shelving to fit the specific needs of the user.
Learn more about custom bathroom installations from On The Mend Medical.
The Bottom Line
The right safety shower can enhance the home mobility, safety, and independence of those with mobility issues. When looking to install a safety shower, be sure to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice before you make a decision.
And On the Mend Medical Supplies & Equipment is here to help as well. We have a full selection of shower systems for you to browse and staff on hand to answer any and all questions. Contact us on our website or by phone at (844) 470-6363.
FAQs
What is a safety shower?
A safety shower is a shower that provides a safe, convenient, and comfortable bathing experience to those with mobility challenges.
What are the main types of safety showers?
The main types of safety showers are walk-in showers, roll-in showers, and transfer showers.
How much do safety showers cost?
The cost of safety showers can vary depending on the type of shower, materials, and features. Typically, accessible showers can cost between $1,500 and $6,000.
What are the benefits of installing a safety shower?
The benefits of installing a safety shower at home are increased safety, enhanced independence, increased comfort and convenience, and adaptability.
How do I maintain a barrier free shower?
To maintain a safety shower you should regularly clean it and have a professional perform routine inspections.
Where can I get a walk-in safety shower?
Contact On the Mend for all your safety shower needs.
