The inevitable aging process affects us all in many different ways. There are often adjustments that need to be made to living spaces to accommodate the elderly during their progressing years, but these need to be carefully considered as they are critical to ensuring independent living is still achievable, as much as possible. The ability to go about day-to-day self-care tasks is so important to maintaining the routines that the individuals have come to know and love. 

According to Age UK, the number of older people in England who struggle with independent living and carrying out even the most essential tasks like washing and getting dressed has increased to a new high of 1.4 million.

Accessibility to maintain independent living

The bathroom is often the focal point for accessibility adaptations. Small changes such as raised toilet seats, rails, bath boards, and shower seats are often the first steps. Larger adaptations such as a side opening bath that provides easy access without climbing or a level-access shower or wet room, often follow. 

Likely to be the best shower enclosures for the elderly are walk-in wet rooms and frameless shower enclosures. 

Full walk-in wet-room shower solutions are ideal for wheelchair users. Features such as powered seats that are easily adjustable and entrance thresholds that have no boundary to step over, mean independent living can be supported for far longer than ever before. 

Frameless shower enclosures feature few visible components to hold the glass panels in place. They are designed to offer the same stability as framed alternatives, by using integrated brackets and channels.

Design meets accessibility

The really good news is that these adaptations don’t need to look dated or ugly. Accessibility options have come a long way from ugly clunky furniture. And the modern trend for walk-in shower enclosures means they are widely popular with all ages regardless of mobility restrictions. This also means that there are plenty of options for shower enclosures for the elderly that are stylish and contemporary. With a myriad of different designs available, you won’t need to compromise on style to achieve your bathroom goal. 

We have several walk-in shower enclosures that are perfect for the elderly because walk-in shower enclosures have only a little step to navigate. 

If you are looking for a bold design, our View #1 Fixed Panel walk-in shower enclosure will add an edge to your shower room. The shower panel features bold horizontal lines available in black or white finish, providing a modern edge that can be fitted in any size shower room. 

If choosing a wet-room style shower enclosure, the shower can be installed flush to the floor, meaning accessibility is easy as there are no boundaries whatsoever. 

Our frameless View 20 shower enclosure is ideal for wet-room bathrooms. It will fit most spaces, being available in both standard and bespoke sizes, and will bring light and style. This beautifully simplistic design immediately gives your room the feeling of space with all the obvious benefits of a wet room.

Long gone are ugly plastic panels and dated shower enclosures for the elderly. Why not enjoy a frameless walk-in shower enclosure or a stunning wet room that is elegant, stylish, and practical.