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Bathroom design considerations to help with Strokes

By Adam Ferry Occupational Therapist

The term ‘stroke’ is so broad given the various types and severity of the condition, that it’s difficult in this short blog to cover every potential presentation and therefore design feature. 

The term ‘stroke’ is so broad given the various types and severity of the condition, that it’s difficult in this short blog to cover every potential presentation and therefore design feature. Instead, we will consider some of the potential issues faced by someone following a stroke and provide an insight into what to consider in order to maintain accessibility.

Some of the common symptoms include:

  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Difficulty with grip
  • Reduced standing balance
  • Reduced spatial awareness (knowing the bodies position)
  • Reduced vision 
  • Inattention on one side of the body or environment
  • Fatigue

Whilst nowhere near a comprehensive list, is shows that the symptoms of some strokes can affect the body physically as well as cognitively.

If you’ve had a stroke then you know exactly how it’s affected you, and what’s important is that your bathroom is designed or modified to meet those specific needs. Some things to consider within the bathroom are:

  • Will you be walking in or using a wheelchair?
  • If walking, will it be with a walking aid?
  • Use of mobility aids and wheelchairs increases the space needed.
  • Keep the design logical and simple
  • Make fixtures and fittings clearly visible with lighting and colour contrast
  • Think about how you get on and off the toilet and shower chair for example and make sure design supports this
  • Ensure controls and important items are within reach and able to be used with the strong or dominant hand.

When you’re in this position it’s important that you are the expert in yourself, being able to demonstrate or communicate your needs however you are able to. Using G360’s vast experience this information can be incorporated into a truly bespoke, person centred bathroom design that maximises independence and dignity without the need to project manage.