To most abled body people, the bathroom is a place of sanctuary. It is a place of respite, a place where they can have their privacy. It is also a place where they can read the paper, figure out their next move, or simply relax. However, to most disabled body individuals, the bathroom can be a devastating place. The truth of the matter is that more accidents that occur in the house occur in the bathroom than in any other room. This paper will explore this fact and offer some solutions as well as Assistive Technology devices that can help minimize those accidents.

Falling and injuring oneself is probably the most common accident that occurs. Falling can occur from slipping. Keeping the floor and bathing surface clean and dry is very important. One thing to consider is that a floor can look clean and dry and still be slippery if there is soap scum buildup on the floor. A simple soap scum remover that you can get at any supermarket will take care of the problem. Obvious injuries that can occur from falling are broken bones and more dangerous head injuries. Therefore, putting padding over the toilet and sink areas and over sharp edges can prevent devastating injuries. Simply slipping without falling can cause stretching and muscle tearing injuries. Installing bars into the wall at strategic places in the bathroom helps the disabled person get around easier and safer.

What are the hidden dangers in the bathroom? In my opinion they are chemicals. Now a day, we use chemicals for everything without thinking that there may be some kind of consequence. What are the consequences? The obvious one is allergy. Just a thought as I say this from clinical experience but no scientific proof, a person who’s body is compromised by an illness and taking medications daily in my opinion is more susceptible to allergic reactions because of the stress on the immune system.

The other hidden danger is mold. That’s right, mold. By not keeping the bathroom clean and dry, mold can grow. This mold can potentially be a problem as it may cause allergies, respiratory problems, and even toxic reactions to your brain. How do you keep the bathroom free from mold? The most important thing that you can do is to keep the tub and basin dry. Secondly, there are commercial products on the market that will kill mold. Spraying the tub and basin after use will keep the problem in check.

There are also many appliances that are useful for the mobility impaired individual. I going to list them and they’re function for you now. I don’t maintain that this is a complete list, however is it fairly inclusive.

TRANSFER BENCH- is suitable for individuals who need assistance making tub transfers.

PADDED BENCH-has thick vinyl padded seats with a backrest for bathing comfort for people with sensitive skin.

TUB TROLLEY-is suitable for people with strong upper body strength. While using a wall mounted grab bar, you pull the seat in and out of the tub.

INSIDE TUB-LIFT-it is portable lifts for people who ma need tub transfer assistance. It uses household water pressure of 20 pounds per square inch to transfer people up to 20 lb.

OUTSIDE TUB-LIFT-is a permanently installed lift and is suitable for people who are unable to lift themselves in and out of a tub.

FLOOR-MOUNTED BATHCHAIR LIFT-is best suited for individuals who are very dependent on others to help them with their tub transfer.

POWERED LIFT-is electronically powered and connected by a chain to a track that is mounted on the ceiling. A remote control used by the individual raises and lowers them at will. Note: use a professional installer.

BATH STOOL-is economical and light- weight. It is good for a person with slight to medium builds.

BATHCHAIR-is helpful for people with poor back strength. It can hold up to 400 lb. You can also get it padded for more comfort on the skin.

HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE CHAIR-it accommodates people with different builds and heights.

HORSESHOE BATHSEAT-because of its shape, it is suitable for individuals who have difficulty getting to and cleaning their underside when sitting on the tub floor. If this doesn’t do the trick, it also comes in a stool that adjusts up to 23 inches so you can get to your underside.

HANDGRIP BATHSTOOL-has handgrips, which provides support for people who have a hard, time maintaining their balance in a sitting position.

HANDGRIP BTHCHAIR- is beneficial to those people who need assistance maintaining an upright position.

TUB BOARD-is suitable for people with strong backs with slight to medium builds.

PORTABLE SHOWERSEAT-is used for people who need to sit when showering. It is wall mounted and therefore permanent. You can also buy one that is height adjustable and foldable.

SHOWER WHEELCHAIR-it transports non-ambulatory people into the shower. It also has a horseshoe seat that makes the person’s underside more accessible.