When you or someone you know suffers with a physical disability that limits mobility and perhaps means you need a wheelchair to get around, then what would be a simple task of taking a shower takes on a whole new meaning. That’s why specialized handicapped showers are made in order to make this task into something to be enjoyed and far more convenient than the more uncomfortable and awkward alternative. Let’s take a look at some of the features that typify these wonderful facilities and the uses that they are put to.
The first thing you will notice about a handicap shower stall is the enlarged size. This is mainly to allow a wheelchair user to get access to the shower area and transfer from the chair to the shower seat that is also a part of this unit, or if needs be to actually take a shower while using a special wheelchair for that purpose. These units are generally fitted flush to the bathroom floor tiles so that a wheelchair can be rolled right on in without any obstruction. To deal with any waste water and prevent it wetting the bathroom floor and making it slippery and dangerous, there are a few methods that are most often used. one is to have a gully covered by a fine grate running the length of the open side of the shower stall beneath the shower curtain to take the water away to a drainage outlet. Another is to use a flexible strip that a wheelchair can ride over without encumbrance, but that springs back to keep the water in.
Inside the shower stall, you’ll see handrails that are meant to allow a wheelchair user to transfer to the shower seat and steady themselves while they use the shower. There will also be the ability to hand hold the shower head for better water coverage if needs be. The shower curtain itself is usually heavy duty with a sturdy curtain rail to support its extra weight. this is necessary as it has a wider opening to cover and keep water in, while being resistant to heat, stains, washing fluids and cleaning chemicals used in cleaning the unit after use.
All in all, the modern handicap shower is designed to be comfortable and enjoyable to use for the people who need it most. This is so they can take a shower in comfort and with dignity, which is the least anyone should have, after all.
