In the Bathroom
Make everyday bathroom tasks easier with a few simple processes and assistive products. Take a look at the suggestions below to become more independent in the bathroom.
How independent are you in the bathroom?
Start by asking these questions:
- Do you have non-slip flooring in your bathroom? Do you have a non-slip mat in your shower or bath?
- Do you have grab rails next to the toilet, shower, and bath so that you don't have to rely on door frames, towel rails, or other bathroom fixtures for support?
- Do you have a plug-in sensor night light? Can you leave a light on at night to help you see your way to and from the bathroom?
- Do you have a thermostat to control how hot your water gets?
Plan
- Put all the things you need for a task in one place.
- Lay out your towel, clothes, and any products you need on a chair or dry surface nearby.
- Having a strong chair in the bathroom to sit on while drying and getting dressed can make things easier on your body and give you more time.
Prepare
- Products with long handles can help you reach your lower body, back, and hair more easily.
- A magnifying mirror can make shaving or putting on makeup easier.
- Foam tubing or non-slip handles make things easier to grip and handle.
- Try using a tube squeezer to help get toothpaste onto your toothbrush.
Pace
- Sitting down helps you save energy and makes it simpler to reach your lower legs and feet.
- Start by washing your upper body first, then move on to your lower body.
- Use products with long handles to make reaching easier.
Simple solutions for everyday bathroom tasks
Washing and drying feet and toes
Try using brushes, sponges, or toe washers with long handles to make it easier to reach your feet without bending. You can also sew loops or soft handles onto towels to help you grip them better when drying off. Use a clean, dry toe washer to dry your feet. Another option is to wrap a towel around a dressing stick with a long handle.
Using zips, buttons, and clasps
If you find pulling up zippers or doing up buttons difficult, try using a button hook or zip puller loop instead. This can also help keep zips up by hooking the loop over a top button.
If you have a weak or painful arm or leg, reduce the discomfort by dressing it first.
Managing your medications
Medication organisers make managing your medications a lot easier. You can find them at your local pharmacy. Most organisers carry up to four pills per day. Pill crushers or splitters help you take the correct dosage to always feel your best. You can set up a pill reminder alarm on your mobile or leave an alarm next to your pill organiser.
Putting socks, stockings, and shoes on
Try sitting down to dry yourself and get dressed. If reaching your feet is difficult, using a footstool or equipment with a long handle can make it much easier. Try products like a shoehorn, sock aid, or dressing stick. You might also like to consider shoes with Velcro straps or elastic laces instead of having to tie your laces.
Clipping your nails
Suction nail clippers stick in place, making it easier to cut with one hand. Large, modified nail clippers can also help you see better while cutting.
Administer eye drops easily
can administer medications. Ask your pharmacist for an eye drop guide or other solutions if you struggle to apply eye medicine.
Simple bathroom modifications
Here are some simple changes you can make to your bathroom to enjoy your independence for longer.
- Install lever taps to make turning taps on and off easier
- Install a hand-held adjustable shower head to wash your back and feet
- Try using a shower seat to make washing easier
- Install non-slip adhesive on the bathroom floor and inside the bath and shower
- Plug in a sensor light to help you see your way to and from the bathroom at night
Enjoy independence every day
You can enjoy independence everywhere and everyday. We have created some helpful guides for different areas of your home and life to help you consider what small changes you can make or assistive technology you can use to regain or maintain your independence.