How to Equip a Handicapped Bath on a Budget

An accessible bathroom need not break your budget. If financial concerns or a temporary need make a full rehab of the room impractical, these low-cost upgrades bring accessibility within reach. If you move frequently, or the person with the disability will move to another residence, this equipment is easily portable to another bathroom.

Things You'll Need

• Tub transfer bench
• Non-slip tub mat
• Hand-held showerhead assembly
• Plant hook
• Detachable clamp-on tub rails
• Toilet seat frame or surround
• Raised toilet seat
• No-slip doorknob covers

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a tub transfer bench to provide easy access into and out of the tub. Check the weight limits of the bench before buying. Tub transfer benches are adjustable in height to accommodate a variety of users. Position the seat back and side rail according to tub layout. Suction cups on the legs within the tub will keep the bench in place. Enter the tub by sitting on the outer portion of the bench; swing legs, one at a time, into the tub. Slide across the bench and into position for bathing. Add a non-slip mat on the bottom of the tub for added security.

• 2

  Give the bather control by replacing a fixed showerhead with a hand-held one. Look for one with flow control on the head. Check pet supply outlets for removable hand-helds if you prefer to keep the existing showerhead. Keep the handheld close to the bather using a plant hook. Loop one end on the leg of the tub transfer bench. Hook the other around the hose of the hand-held showerhead. Choose a coated plant hook. The coating will protect the hook from rusting in the damp bathroom environment and keep the hook from scratching the tub if the bather drops it.

• 3

  Add clamp-on tub rails to provide extra security entering and exiting the tub. Investigate the various styles, including single-level, multilevel and non-slip rails, as well as several finishes.

• 4

  Make a standard commode accessible by adding a toilet seat frame or surround. The adjustable side supports provide assistance in sitting and standing. Add a raised seat to increase the height to a more comfortable level.

• 5

  Lever faucet handles are the ideal, but not always possible to install. Reduce the effort needed to turn faucets on and off by placing doorknob covers over the existing handles. The easy-to-grip covers will aid in controlling water temperature more easily.