Future proof: Designing Bathrooms for the Elderly

Doc M and Older People

The nuances of Doc M come into focus when considering the challenges we may face as we age. While we may not all end up using a wheelchair, we are likely to experience changes in vision, strength, balance, and dexterity. These changes may be pronounced or subtle, but adapting hospitality bathrooms to enhance the comfort and safety of older users is essential.

All features of a standard wheelchair or ambulant accessible bathroom are relevant to older users. Like any disabled person, older guests appreciate not being made to feel like they are in a nursing home or medical facility when visiting a restaurant, hotel, or museum. They expect and deserve the same stylish, dignified experiences as any other patron. Here’s how Doc M packs can help older people be safer and more independent:

Grab Rails

Scientists estimate that changes in our ability to balance can begin as early as age 40. As we age, loss of musculoskeletal function, joint stiffness, and slower reflexes can cause deteriorating balance, increasing the risk of falling. These risks are greatest when changing position, such as going from standing to seated or vice versa. Grab rails – especially on either side of the toilet – can be invaluable for older people experiencing joint pain and other mobility problems, providing general stability.

"Grab rails provide essential support, helping older individuals maintain balance and stability."

Raised Toilet Pan

As well as balance issues, aging brings a natural loss of muscle mass. A raised toilet pan reduces pressure on the knees, requiring less effort to sit down and stand up again, which lowers the risk of falls.

Lever or Sensor Controls

Dexterity can be affected by age. Conditions like arthritis and general loss of strength can make gripping and twisting taps or toilet flushes difficult. Doc M toilets have paddle/lever or sensor controls on taps and flush mechanisms, making them easy to activate with a closed fist, palm, wrist, or elbow – or simply by passing a hand in front of the sensor.

Light Reflectance Value (LRV)

LRV refers to the degree of contrast between Doc M fixtures like grab rails and the surfaces they are mounted on or between walls and floors. Sufficient contrast helps people with sight loss easily see and grasp the rails and prevents disorientation. As we age, our eyes find it harder to adjust to changes in light levels, and we may experience blurred vision or cataracts. Ensuring good contrast is good practice for all bathrooms, not just Doc M spaces.

"Adequate contrast in bathroom fixtures is crucial for safety, especially for those with visual impairments."

Other Considerations

There are other aspects of bathroom design – some specified in Approved Document M and some not – that can significantly impact the comfort and safety of older people, particularly in hotels.

Non-Slip Floors

Non-slip flooring is specified in Doc M for all accessible toilets and bathrooms. Older people may not always request an accessible hotel room, but they are always at greater risk of slips and falls on shiny ceramic floors. Advances in non-slip materials mean there’s no need to compromise on style when choosing a non-slip floor. Many seamless floor systems can also make bathroom floors more hygienic and durable, as well as safer.

Shower Seats

Accessible rooms with a shower should always have a shower seat – but why only accessible rooms? Shower seats benefit people with muscle fatigue or balance problems and offer a relaxing experience. Fitzroy of London offers stylish folding shower seats that take up minimal space in the shower enclosure, with sleek aesthetics worthy of any luxury hotel or spa.

Step-Free Shower Access

Designing bathrooms with wet areas rather than conventional shower trays is another way to make them accessible for everyone, whether it’s a wheelchair user or an older person. This simple alternative eliminates trip hazards in the bathroom. You can create a wet area using conventional vinyl or tile flooring or by installing a flush shower tray.

Removable Rails

Removable grab rails are an intelligent choice for modern hotels, allowing any bathroom to be quickly adapted for additional needs. Removable from Fitzroy of London can be installed in minutes when requested by a guest and removed again just as quickly. The fittings are hidden behind a discreet blanking plate when not in use.

Thermostatic Shower Controls

Burns and scalds are common bathroom accidents for all users, especially elderly ones. Reduced manual dexterity and thinner, more sensitive skin make older people more vulnerable. Thermostatic shower controls make it easy to achieve a comfortable, stable water temperature with minimal adjustment. These should always be clearly labeled in hotel settings so guests can easily understand how to raise and lower the temperature.

"Thermostatic shower controls ensure a safe and comfortable showering experience for all users."