Apartment adaptation - bathroom and shower

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Bathroom / shower

For many people, the bathroom is relatively small and conversions are more difficult. First change the door fitting and attach it so that the door swings open outwards. This creates space and also has a security advantage. If you fall in the bathroom and lie in front of the door, helpers have easy access. Attach solid grab bars next to the shower, toilet and sink. You can prevent a fall if you lose your balance.

• Shower: It is ideal if the shower and bathroom floor are at the same height. The edge around the shower basin should be as low as possible. Frail people need a way to take a seated shower. Special shower chairs or folding seats that are attached to the wall are suitable for this. Non-slip rubber mats belong on the smooth floor - both inside and outside the shower. If the bathroom is to be re-tiled anyway, use small, non-slip tiles.

• Bathtub: The first problem is usually getting into the bathtub. A bathtub board helps here. It is placed across the tub and attached to the sides. It offers significantly more support than the slippery bathtub rim. The board is also suitable as a seat for showering.

A special bathtub lifter is useful for frail people. This is an electrically operated chair that is placed in the bathtub and is height adjustable. So you can sit on the chair and automatically lower yourself into the tub for a cozy bath. Be sure to put a non-slip mat on the bottom of the tub.

• Toilet: The toilet seat is often too low, which makes it difficult to get up. In this case, attachments that are placed on the bowl will help.

• Sink: There must be space for two people in front of the sink if you need help with washing. The same goes for the bottom of the pool. There should be enough space for your legs here if you want to wash yourself while sitting. In this case, the mirror should also be attached accordingly low.

• Washing machine: a top loader saves space than a front loader. Plus, you don't have to bend down when stuffing in or taking out the laundry. If there is still space left, buy a tumble dryer. This saves you having to hang up heavy, wet laundry.