FURNITURE & INTERIORS
Designing for Stroke Rehabilitation
Here, Stuart Reynolds, UK Marketing & Product Management Director at AKW, shows how care home bathrooms can be adapted to better accommodate the needs of stroke survivors.
According to the Stroke Association there are 1.3 million stroke survivors in the UK and research estimates approximately 8-10% of these are discharged from hospital to care homes.
Stroke survivors discharged to care homes tend to have higher stroke severity and disability compared to those discharged to their own homes. England’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines for stroke rehabilitation highlights the need for stroke survivors living in care homes to receive the same standard of treatment and appropriate equipment as those in their own homes, yet this can be challenging, as the physical and cognitive abilities of stroke survivors can vary vastly.
THREE DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR A
SAFE BATHROOM In particular, the bathroom can be a complex space for stroke survivors to navigate. Typical issues can include difficulty in transferring on and off the toilet, or getting in and out of baths and showers, as well as altered visual perception and feeling overwhelmed or psychologically confused.
While each stroke survivor’s challenges will be different, there are three basic design principles that can help create a safe bathroom adaptation that will work for them and other residents. Think about a design that provides physical support, puts products in the most logical places – for instance, keeping shower gel in the shower etc. – and that minimises clutter.
Wash basins – these should always be fixed securely to a wall and not freestanding. Similarly, towel rails need to be strong and fixed to the wall for the same reason.
Fold up grab rails – these, combined with toilet roll holders, are an ideal way to maximise space, whilst offering even more
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stability aids for a stroke survivor. The grab rails should be installed on both sides of any furniture and need to be of the type that they can be put away against the wall if needed, allowing greater access around the space.
Taps – the needs of the individual will dictate the choice of taps. For example, for a stroke survivor with paralysis on one side, a mixer tap would be a better choice as this can be operated with one hand, however for someone with significant cognitive damage, a mixer tap is more confusing than two separate taps.
Underfloor heating – to avoid exposed pipework and radiators, underfloor heating is ideal. Opt for low surface temperature radiators if underfloor heating is not possible however, so that burn injuries are prevented.
Flooring – non-slip flooring is essential and patterns or flecks should be avoided, as these can be visually challenging for those with cognitive damage or visual impairments.
Tiling – muted colours and patterned tiles are best avoided as these can cause visual confusion. Contrast can be used however to distinguish between different surfaces.
Showers – the controls need to be simple to understand and easy to use with one hand operation. There should also be obvious up and down buttons for temperature and flow control. AKW SmartCare Plus Electric Care Shower is BEAB CARE approved and RNIB accredited and offers these features.
With a well-designed inclusive bathroom, care homes can ensure the stroke survivor has maximum accessibility, giving them the best possible space to adjust to their changing needs and to promote their recovery.
www.akw-ltd.co.uk/akw-creates-stroke-bathroom-guide www.akw-ltd.co.uk
www.tomorrowscare.co.uk
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