For individuals with limited mobility, the simple act of taking a shower can present numerous obstacles. Enter the wheelchair accessible shower: a necessity in the world of inclusive bathroom design. 

Built with accessibility in mind, a modern wheelchair accessible shower includes features such as level access shower trays and wide-opening doors. This provides convenience, comfort and safety for those with disabilities, fostering a sense of freedom and independence. Read on to discover the key features and advantages of wheelchair accessible showers.

Can You Shower in a Wheelchair?

A common question that arises when discussing accessibility in bathrooms is "can you use a wheelchair in shower areas?" The answer is, unfortunately, that most showers are not wheelchair-friendly. While you can buy a wheelchair for shower use, standard showers are typically not spacious enough to accommodate them. What’s more, they often have a step or raised threshold, making them inaccessible.
That’s where wheelchair accessible showers come in. These are specifically designed to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring they can enter, use and exit the shower area with ease. 

Along with a spacious interior and wider entry points, they are fitted with a wheelchair accessible shower tray for step-free entry, and various other features that make the showering experience seamless and hazard-free.

Benefits of Wheelchair Accessible Showers

Navigating daily life with limited mobility often means confronting barriers that many take for granted. One such barrier is the traditional bathroom setup, which can pose significant challenges for wheelchair users. 

Wheelchair-friendly showers offer both convenience and safety, granting people with disabilities more autonomy and independence in their day-to-day lives. Here are some of the main benefits of wheelchair shower access in homes, businesses and public buildings. 

Practical Benefits

The primary advantage of a walk-in shower wheelchair accessible design is the sheer convenience it offers. Gone are the days of uncomfortable sponge-baths or the need for assistance every time one needs to shower. With accessible controls and a seamless entry and exit, wheelchair accessible showers allow for a smoother and more efficient personal hygiene routine, saving both time and effort.

Health and Safety

Safety is paramount, especially in wet environments such as bathrooms. Wheelchair accessible showers are designed with this in mind, with features like slip-resistant flooring and grab bars. Moreover, the spacious design of a wheelchair shower stall ensures that there's room to manoeuvre, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Freedom and Independence 

One of the less tangible but equally crucial benefits is the sense of dignity and personal freedom gained by making a walk-in shower wheelchair accessible. Being able to shower independently and in privacy, on one’s own terms and without assistance, can significantly boost a person’s self-esteem and overall well-being.

Inclusivity

Wheelchair-friendly showers are not just for private residences. In public spaces, such as hotels, gyms and leisure centres, they send a clear message of inclusivity. Even something as simple as providing a shower platform for wheelchair access can help enormously in demonstrating the business’s commitment to accessibility.

Types of Wheelchair Accessible Shower Solutions

When considering wheelchair shower ideas, there are various options to choose from depending on your budget and needs.

One of the most popular solutions is to invest in a disabled wet room. This is a fully waterproofed open-plan bathroom, with no distinct separation between the shower area and the rest of the space. Wet rooms offer both form and function, providing ample room for wheelchairs while exuding a modern and minimalist aesthetic. 

If you can’t commit to a full bathroom renovation, a more budget-friendly alternative is to install a wheelchair-friendly shower enclosure. This is a type of accessible shower stall that typically features wide doors and a wheelchair shower tray, which is level with the floor.

Ensuring Your Shower is Wheelchair-Friendly

If you’re thinking of installing a wheelchair-accessible shower in your home or business, here are the most important features to consider: 

• Wheelchair shower threshold: A level access shower tray without any steps or raised barriers is essential. 

• Door design: If a shower door is desired, it should be wide and outward-opening. It should also have an inner handle or rail for easy closure. 

• Slip-resistant flooring: A non-slip wheelchair shower floor material helps to aid stability and prevent accidents.

• Shower seat: For those not staying in their wheelchair, a sturdy shower seat with arm support is crucial.

• Grab rails: Securely fixed grab bars ensure safe transfers from wheelchair to shower chair (or toilet). 

• Accessible controls: The temperature and water flow controls should be easily accessible from a seated position. 

• Emergency pull cord: An added layer of safety, this feature allows users to alert someone if they need assistance. 

It’s also important to take wheelchair shower dimensions into account. Whether it’s a wet room or an enclosed cubicle, the space should comfortably accommodate a wheelchair, allowing for full manoeuvrability.

Invest in Accessibility Today with Wetroomstop

At Wetroomstop, we understand the impact that a well-designed, wheelchair-accessible shower can have on an individual's life. Whether you’re installing a new bathroom or considering an upgrade, we’ve got you covered. If you're looking for a specialist provider of Wetroomstop equipment, don't hesitate to get in touch with our experienced and friendly team today.