Bathrooms Feature
Interiors 23
Quick wins for arthritis- friendly facilities
Stuart Reynolds at AKW describes the ‘quick wins’ available to specifi ers when it comes to adaptations for kitchens and bathrooms that make appliances far easier to use for millions of people with arthritis.
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rthritis is so common that you will most likely know someone with the condition. Under the 2010 Equality Act, it can qualify as a disability if it substantially aff ects daily life, meaning that reasonable adjustments must be made to avoid legal complaints and discrimination claims.
A VERY COMMON CONDITION Arthritis is a very common condition in the UK and an estimated 10 million people are living with it, according to the charity Arthritis UK. Add to this the other musculoskeletal conditions and this increases to one in four people. When arthritis is mentioned, the fi rst images that come to mind are swollen knuckles and knees, that can aff ect things such as mobility, weight-bearing movements and grip strength. However, a kitchen or bathroom that has been adapted for someone living with arthritis can be life changing. It will also mean that the tenancy is stabilised, eviction risk reduced, housing services engagement improved and NHS and council goals supported to keep people living safely at home.
FOCUSED ADAPTATIONS ARE COST-EFFECTIVE With so many users impacted, AKW, in conjunction with Arthritis UK and T e Occupational T erapy Service has created guidance to help social landlords improve tenants’ bathrooms, kitchens and overall lives. T e measures in the guidance are designed to help create thoughtful adaptations, and using the right products in the right places, create cost-effi cient, life improving solutions that help minimise tenancy failures in the long-term.
BATHROOM ADJUSTMENTS In terms of quick wins, painful hands make dexterity an issue for those with arthritis, so choose taps, fl ushes and controls that are lever-operated or have infrared sensors, with clear hot/cold temperature indicators where necessary. T ink about including thermostatic mixer valves, which are useful to avoid scalds when mobility is impaired. And choose a thermostatic care shower with easy-to-use lever operation; one which also includes features to support people with cognitive and/or visual impairment. Also, to improve transfers around the space, think about incorporating drop-
down rails by the toilet or grab rails. Interestingly, our research suggests that many people prefer fl uted grab rails, as they feel these off er more grip. Although space is tight in most traditional tenant bathrooms, think carefully about the position of toiletries, toilet roll holders and towels, so they are in easy reach for the user. When it comes to the fl ooring, choose vinyl material with a minimum R10 rating, as this will provide a slip-resistant and safe environment for the user. Finally, think about including shower chairs and raised toilet seats that make
Choose taps, fl ushes and controls that are lever-operated or have infrared sensors
Housing Management & Maintenance Summer 2026
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