How Are Handicap Walk-In Showers Different From Standard Showers?
It’s likely that most people have never heard of handicap walk-in showers, even if they have the need for one. The installation of these convenient safety measures provides independent bathing for individuals with mobility issues or disabilities, and it is increasingly popular. Having one of these showers installed in any bathroom can be easy and stress free, but why do it if you’re not even sure that it’s worth it? Take the time to learn about some of the special features of these showers so that you can make an informed decision.
How is A Standard Shower Dangerous for a Handicapped Individual?
Most (pretty much all) standard showers have a lip or raised edge that separates the shower from the bathroom floor. This is supposed to help stop that small bit of water waiting to go down the drain from spilling over into the main bathroom. For a handicapped individual, this lip often causes tripping, falling, difficulty entering and leaving the shower, or nearly impossible independent bathing.
A standard shower also has ledges around the sides for bathing products but rarely do showers have any place to sit down. A person bound to a wheelchair or who has limited mobility would have to sit on the floor of the shower or risk standing too long and falling down.
What Features Make Handicap Walk In Showers Safer and More Comfortable?
This type of shower is made specifically for handicapped or mobility-challenged individuals, but it can also be safe and comfortable for anyone who uses it.
- No lip between the shower and the bathroom floor is the largest difference between this type of shower and a standard shower. A curtain or shower door can be added for privacy or to keep water from overflowing. The user can walk or wheel right into the shower by hitting a bump.
- A non-slip floor gives users the peace of mind that standing up or moving around in the shower won’t result in a slip and fall incident. Also, grab bars can be installed anywhere in the shower for assistance entering, exiting, and bathing.
- A comfortable seat makes handicap walk in showers convenient for mobility challenged individuals as well as anyone who doesn’t want to sit on the shower floor during periods of exhaustion or certain grooming tasks.
Many models have more customizable features that make these showers a wonderful addition to any bathroom, whether the individuals using it currently need bathing assistance or not.
No Hassle Installation
Making the switch to a no-lip walk-in shower isn’t difficult, and the comfort, safety and peace of mind that you gain from the switch will be worth it. The friendly and knowledgeable customer service representatives at Independent Home can help you find out if handicap walk in showers are right for your home. They’ll walk you through the process of choosing your features and setting up one day installation with ease. Find out more today!
