What Should Dementia Friendly Bathrooms Look Like?
When designing a bathroom for someone living with dementia, there are several things to keep in mind. The goal is to create a space that is safe, functional, and user-friendly. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the key features that all dementia friendly bathrooms should have.
Safety First
One of the most important things to consider when designing a bathroom for someone with dementia is safety. There are a number of potential safety hazards in any bathroom, so it's important to take steps to minimize the risk of injury. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub.
- Use non-slip flooring material throughout the bathroom.
- Use night lights or motion sensor lights to help illuminate the way to the bathroom at night.
- Keep all cleaning products and medications out of reach.
- Install a raised toilet seat if necessary.
Functionality and Accessibility
Another important consideration when designing a dementia-friendly bathroom is functionality. The bathroom should be designed in such a way that it is easy to use and accessible for everyone. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use lever-style handles on doors and faucets rather than knobs, which can be difficult for people with arthritis or other dexterity issues.
- Make sure all doors swing outwards to prevent them from being accidentally locked from the inside.
- Avoid using shower curtains; instead, install a glass shower door or shower screen.
User-Friendliness
Lastly, the bathroom should be user-friendly. This means creating a space that is comfortable and inviting. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use calming colors on walls and floors. neutral colors are best.
- Bring in some fresh flowers or plants to add a touch of nature.
- Add some personal touches like photographs or artwork.
When designing a bathroom for someone with dementia, there are several important factors to keep in mind. The most important thing is safety; however, you also need to take into account functionality, accessibility, and user-friendliness. By following these guidelines, you can create a space that is both safe and comfortable for everyone involved.