Everyone has the same needs, yet still we are all different through gender, personality, and physical wellness. We all need to eat, shower, play, and use the toilet.
For some people, mobility is dependent on wheelchairs. This reduced mobility makes us need extra consideration to get through our daily activities.
For example, using a regular toilet can be an uphill task, and we all need to go a few times daily. Thankfully, there are numerous ways to make toilets accessible to folks in wheelchairs. It does not take much, but you must put some thought and effort into it.
Public and Private Toilets Need Similar Adjustments for Accessibility
You can decide to build an accessible toilet from scratch or modify an existing one for accessibility. It does not matter if it’s a home or public toilet, but you can make those at home even more suited to personal needs.
So, what are the most obvious considerations you need to make for people with limited mobility?
Raised Toilet Seat
You can add a raised toilet seat on any regular toilet to attain a comfortable height. The aid makes it easier for folks on wheelchairs to do the transfer. This assistive technology prevents falls and is great for old folks, especially if you had a recent hip injury.
Despite raising the toilet seat, make sure that it is easy to access tissue rolls with one hand.
Ample Space
Folks on wheelchairs cannot easily access narrow toilets or doors because their wheelchairs take up more space, especially when turning. Some often need caregivers to accompany them, which demands ample space.
You should make the space allowance for your home toilet just in case you end up with a physical disability within your household. Whereas governments mandate this provision for public amenities, your home is under your jurisdiction.
Toilet Frame and Grab Bars
Toilet frames are often free-standing and do not require installation. Some are fixed, but foldable ones allow you to move around with them in your car.
The best ones are even width adjustable, which means that you carry and use them in narrow public toilets by adjusting the width. They give disabled folks easy access to the toilet seat, reducing the need for an assistant.
Grab bars also empower people on wheelchairs to get a grip while transferring. Plus, they mitigate some safety concerns and are easy to install.
Special Considerations for Public Toilets
Public, accessible toilets cater to more than just your home needs. These amenities make even more safety considerations including:
Emergency Pull Strings
These help disabled folks to raise an alarm if anything goes wrong in the restrooms. They set off a buzzer and red flashing lights to call for urgent assistance.
Wheelchair-Height Sanitation Sinks
These accommodate disabled folks who treasure their independence and do not want help cleaning up after using the toilet.
Parting Shot
The government strives to make public restrooms as accessible as possible. However, everyone owes extra consideration for easing the lives of people living with disabilities. Remember, there are countless, unpredictable ways you could end up in a wheelchair despite your current wellness.