Whether you are designing for an individual home or a group of retirement properties, there are ways to make the space more navigable for those who live with arthritis. And, with 20.3 million people living with a musculoskeletal condition in the UK at present, demand for home adaptations to help improve quality of life in this area are on the rise.
AKW has developed a best practice guide on designing kitchens and bathrooms for people living with arthritis.
DESIGNING FOR EASE
Arthritis doesn’t just affect a person’s grip strength or mobility, it can also impact balance and reach, making standing, walking, range of motion, hand function and balance difficult. Although the condition of arthritis has been around as long as humans have had joints, its management has progressed. However, as well as medication, the environment a person lives in can greatly impact their ability to remain independent.
Due to the multi-functional nature of both the kitchen and bathroom, these can be the most challenging spaces to navigate. That is why, working in conjunction with Arthritis UK and The Occupational Therapy Service, AKW has developed a new best practice guide on designing kitchen and bathroom spaces for those living with the condition. Below are some of the key take outs, but more information can be found in the free to download guide. There are a number of things to think about when designing these spaces, including the promotion of access, safety, control, comfort and ease of maintenance.
NAVIGATION
If the person is using a walking aid or wheelchair, remove thresholds wherever possible and ensure pathways remain clear and obstacle-free. Also, think about the strategic placement of grab rails and the promotion of seated task performance. This can be in the form of a sturdy, comfortable shower seat that will not only relieve the pressure off knees and hips, but will also give the user a sense of security when showering.
Consider a shower seat with independent fold-up arms, to allow for easy side transfer if needed. And, when using wall-mounted shower seats, consider the dimensions and cushioning – AKW’s research suggests that 4000 Series Shower Seats provide the greatest comfort for users with arthritis. Finally, reduce fall risks with slip-resistant flooring that is matt and unreflective in finish, to reduce visual instability.
DEXTERITY IMPROVERS
Minimise effort for the end user by choosing appliances and fixtures with easy-to-use controls that help to reduce strain on arthritic hands, such as lever, paddle or infrared taps and soft-close drawers. In the bathroom, think about shower enclosures with D-handles and D-latches to reduce strain on fingers and wrists. AKW’s SmartCare Lever Electric Shower has been designed so it can be operated using only two fingers if hands or wrists are affected, making it suitable for those with limited hand mobility.
SUPPORTING SAFETY
Those living with arthritis can have slower reactions due to mobility issues, so consider installing TMVs to prevent scalding and moderate the water pressure, as sometimes this can be painful to the end user if too strong.
MOBILITY HELP
Where possible, reduce bending, reaching and force by fitting a walk-in or level-access shower and shower with push-button or lever controls. Also think about specifying higher seated toilets and grab rails next to the toilet, particularly for those with hip, knee and spine arthritis. As well as a range of comfort-height toilets, AKW has also developed the Rise & Fall Bidet hygienic toilet, which is a good solution if joint pain affects balance or grip.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN
Consider the person’s physical proportions and how they will use the space. For example, when it comes to the sink, as well as fitting single lever or touchless control taps, to eliminate the need to grip, it might be necessary to install shallow sinks and basins to help reduce unnecessary bending.
However, thought needs to be given to clearance under the sink or basin for seated use if needed. It is also advisable to insulate pipes to prevent heat injury to the user’s knees or legs.
To find out more about how straightforward lifestyle adjustments can make all the difference for those living with arthritis, download the free guide at the link below. www.akw-ltd.co.uk