(NC)-As the senior and baby boomer population grows older, the demand for easily accessible bathroom spaces is on the rise. The principle of universal design - a prime consideration for many bathroom product designers and manufacturers - is a thoughtful approach to space that essentially allows the greatest amount of people to use as many products in a home for as long as possible. A bathroom that has been designed with universal access in mind allows for maximum independence, giving one the freedom to age gracefully in their home.
A primary deterrent for baby boomers considering a universally designed bathroom to suit their needs in the future is, not surprisingly, style. Canadian boomers value fashionable and tasteful décor. Boomers take pride in their home and want to entertain with confidence. Home décor should be a reflection of their personality, an expectation that should not be compromised for the sake of future accessibility and lifestyle needs.
Products like wall-mounted vanities allow for easy wheelchair access and, with increasingly fashion-forward designs, are becoming the choice of Canadians of all ages simply for their style value. The Purist model from Kohler is one example - as part of a coordinated bathroom ensemble, its appeal is often primarily aesthetic, although its universal design value is an important long-term benefit.
Shower towers offer hand-held options and multiple showerheads to meet varying height and reach differences. Smart chrome and stainless steel models like the WaterHaven from Kohler bring sleek modernity to a bathroom, and many are ready for standing or sitting use without the need for manual adjustments. Comfort-height toilets, higher towel bars and lever (instead of knob) faucets are just a few other examples of stylish yet universally accessible bathroom products.
Canadians looking to up their home bathroom's accessibility value couldn't have picked a better time to do so. With the stylish and modern options available today, you're likely to forget it was a practical decision to make accessibility changes to the bathroom. One thing you won't forget: making a home accessible without compromising style equals a much broader resale market when the time comes to move.
- News Canada