When you get into the autumn years of your life, you might begin to need some more assistance in getting around your own home.
With that established, what is a roll in shower and how can it help you?
A roll in shower is a shower with a low point of entry which allows either wheelchairs or scooters to easily get in. This allows those with disabilities to shower by themselves, earning them a degree of independence and granting them a sense of privacy.
But that is not the only special feature of a roll in shower which makes it a useful piece of equipment for those who need assistance – we’ll cover more of its features below.
What Are the Features of a Roll In Shower?
There are a number of different features which a roll in shower has to make them both comfortable and safe for those who use them.
Some of these features include:
A Low Threshold for Wheelchairs And Scooters
It can be complicated to get the threshold right for those who need assistance:
- Too high, and wheelchairs and scooters can’t get in.
- Too low, and the water will not be kept into the shower.
It is calculated that the optimum size for the threshold for the shower is not higher than half (0.5) inches.
The edges of the shower should be sloped down on either side if the edges are 0.5 inches, but if the edges are 0.25 inches or less, then you won’t need to have it sloped downwards.
A Shower Seat for The Disabled
For those who have trouble walking or standing for long periods of time, a shower seat can be a lifesaver.
There are two kinds of shower seats:
- A rectangular folding shower seat
- A permanent L shaped shower seat
Both of these options allow those with mobility problems to shower on their own and get some independence back, but each seat has its advantages.
The L shaped shower seat is a permanent fixture, designed for those who can only walk short distances before having to sit.
The folding shower seat is there for those who need to use a wheelchair and creates more space for wheelchairs by folding up.
This gives those with disabilities the choice of showering in a wheelchair or on the official seat.
They Have Grab Bars for Stability
Grab bars are, simply put, bars either vertical or horizontal which gives people a stable place to hold onto for stability.
This allows those with mobility issues to be able to have something stable to hold onto in order to get into the shower.
Handheld Shower Heads
These shower heads are a little different from other kinds of removable shower heads as well:
- They have extra-long hoses so that it was very easily accessible for those who are disabled.
- They should be no more than 27 inches from the seat so it can be easily reached.
- They are mounted on height adjustable bars, so that they can be accessible to anyone who wants to use it.
What Are the Benefits of a Roll In Shower?
So why choose a roll in shower rather than other forms of disabled friendly bathroom facilities, such as a walk-in bathtub?
There are a number of benefits to it:
They Are Simple to Use
Becoming disabled can have a lot of mental effects on the individual, but arguably one of the largest hits it can take on a person’s mental health is the lack of independence.
But a roll in shower can help an elderly or disabled person live an independent lifestyle without having to get someone in to help with their private matters.
They are also easy to operate for anyone, disabled or not, which makes it perfect for everyone.
It Is Easy to Maintain – Even For Those With Mobility Issues
There’s no edge to a roll in shower, which makes it very easy to clean even for those who might have mobility issues or be in a wheelchair.
If the water overflows from the shower, then it can be very easily swept back into the drain without much issue.
It Maximizes Space
Believe it or not, a roll in shower takes up less space than even a regular shower or a bathtub, which is very convenient for everyone.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Roll In Shower?
However, there are a few different things which you would need to know before installing a roll in shower into your home:
There Is Limited Privacy with A Roll In Shower
A roll in shower doesn’t have the most amount of privacy, as it doesn’t have a shower door; they can be difficult for those who are in wheelchairs.
There are some solutions to the privacy issue such as:
- A shower curtain rod can be installed over the roll in shower for some privacy.
- You can also install a temporary barrier.
It May Have Excess Water Flow
With not much of a lip to keep water in, the water may overflow, out into any other parts of the bathroom.
This can be a slipping hazard, and this can be dangerous, especially with those already with mobility issues.
There are some solutions to this problem too:
- First, there are trench drains you can install.
- You could also put in temporary threshold over the shower which keeps the water in.
Some Tips For Using A Roll In Shower
Here are a few tips for you if you decide that a roll in shower is for you:
- Be sure that the shower is well sealed so that water doesn’t overflow and spill everywhere.
- Make sure that the position of the showerhead is always easily accessible for everyone.
- Install non-slip material or place non-slip mats on the floor of the shower to make sure that the risk of falling is as small as possible.
Conclusion
For anyone who has mobility issues, having the independence to shower by themselves can be immensely freeing.
A roll in shower is a great way to do this, allowing space for a wheelchair and the freedom for those in it.
Amos Christen graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA. Since 2003, Amos has worked with top interior design professionals in this area, including architects and interior/graphic/lighting designers. As a skilled interior designer, Amos Christen is highly versed in fine arts and crafts and uses that to supplement his main area of expertise. He often publishes articles related to home décor on several websites, including Sprucetoilets.com, Sprucebathroom.com, and Mybesuitedhome.com. He also contributes to leading interior design magazines.