Universal Design
People who inhabit and visit the houses and homes we live in come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from infants to
seniors, with a variety of ever-changing abilities and skills. As we grow-up, grow old and welcome new people to our homes, our housing needs change.
A house or dwelling that is designed and constructed to reflect the principles of Universal Design will be safer and more accommodating to the diverse range of ages and abilities of people, who live and visit in these homes.
Universal Design is defined as:
“The design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for
adaptation or specialized design.” The concept is an evolving design philosophy.
The first principle focuses on providing equitable access for everyone in an integrated and dignified manner. It means that the design is appealing to everyone and provides an equal level of
safety for all users.
Principles of Universal Design:
Principle 1 - Equitable Use
Principle 2 - Flexibility in Use
Principle 3 - Simple and Intuitive
Principle 4 - Perceptible Information
Principle 5 - Tolerance of Error
Principle 6 - Low physical effort
Principle 7 - Size and space for approach and use
Principle 2, flexibility, means that the design of the house or home has been developed considering the wide range of individual preferences and abilities throughout the life cycle of the occupants.
The layout and design of the home should be easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience or cognitive
ability.
Principle 3 requires that design elements be simple and work
intuitively. The provision of information using a combination of different modes, whether using visual, audible or tactile
methods will ensure that everyone is able to safely and effectively use the elements of the home.
Principle 4 encourages the provision of information appealing to all of our senses when interacting with our home environment, using our sight, hearing and touch.
Principle 5 incorporates a tolerance of error, minimizing the potential for unintended results. This involves design considerations that include fail-safe features and give thought to how all users may safely use the space or product.
Principle 6 deals with limiting the amount of strength, stamina and dexterity required to access spaces or use controls and products.
The final principle, Principle 7, focuses on the amount of room needed to access spaces, equipment and controls. This includes designing for the appropriate size and space for all family members and visitors to safely reach, see, and operate all elements of the home.
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Thursday, September 17, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Accessible Bathing Option for your Existing Bath Tub
The seniors’ population in B.C. is projected to double in the next 30 years. At the same time, B.C. seniors are living longer, healthier lives, and want to remain independent as long as possible.
But as seniors age, their health needs can change and I have found that a lot of seniors have difficulties getting in and out of a regular bath tub. Today, seniors are asking for more choice with accessible bathroom. Until recently, most people had just two options when they needed an accessible bathroom:
• Convert their existing tub to shower.
• Or install a walk-in tub.
The price range for these conversions usually ranges from $5000 to convert a tub to shower; and $12,000 to $15,000 to purchase & installed a walk-in tub.
It's been said that necessity is the mother of invention. And with the advancement in technology, there is a more cost-effective way to convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub.
D.T.Design is pleased to present another accessible bathing Option. We can convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub with a Door Insert Kit. This door insert kit is designed to give users an accessible bathing experience without the need to replace an existing bathtub. We also have a safety seat that allows the user to bathe or shower in their existing bathtub while comfortably and safely seated.
Our company can convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub using the door insert kit and the safety seat all from $1690.
With this new innovative method, and the low price tag, more seniors and people with limited mobility can afford an accessible bathroom. It allows people with limited mobility to bathe or shower by their own, maintaining their independence, and dignity.
D.T.Design is a complete bathroom remodelling company that specializing in providing mobility friendly accessible bathroom for seniors and people with mobility challenges.
More information: Visit DreamBath.info
But as seniors age, their health needs can change and I have found that a lot of seniors have difficulties getting in and out of a regular bath tub. Today, seniors are asking for more choice with accessible bathroom. Until recently, most people had just two options when they needed an accessible bathroom:
• Convert their existing tub to shower.
• Or install a walk-in tub.
The price range for these conversions usually ranges from $5000 to convert a tub to shower; and $12,000 to $15,000 to purchase & installed a walk-in tub.
It's been said that necessity is the mother of invention. And with the advancement in technology, there is a more cost-effective way to convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub.
D.T.Design is pleased to present another accessible bathing Option. We can convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub with a Door Insert Kit. This door insert kit is designed to give users an accessible bathing experience without the need to replace an existing bathtub. We also have a safety seat that allows the user to bathe or shower in their existing bathtub while comfortably and safely seated.
Our company can convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub using the door insert kit and the safety seat all from $1690.
With this new innovative method, and the low price tag, more seniors and people with limited mobility can afford an accessible bathroom. It allows people with limited mobility to bathe or shower by their own, maintaining their independence, and dignity.
D.T.Design is a complete bathroom remodelling company that specializing in providing mobility friendly accessible bathroom for seniors and people with mobility challenges.
More information: Visit DreamBath.info
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Do you really know which walk in bath tub is best for you?
A walk in bathtub is a great product for universal bathroom design. You can use the whirlpool massage jets for hydro-therapeutic and it also provide senior a safer way to walk into the tub.
Their compact design and added features have proven appealing to a wide range of customers. The small and compact size of some walk in tub is great for trailer as well and also used it as an in home spa.
What is a walk in tub or walk in bathtub?
“This invention relates to a bath tub construction primarily designed for use by those who may be handicapped, ill, or otherwise limited in activities and strength, and which also may be used in the ordinary conception of a bath tub.
A primary object of the invention is to provide a structure which may have a door opening through a side or an end of the tub, and toward which opening a seat may be moved over the floor of the bath tub, the floor of the tub being at that elevation above a room floor so that the bather may turn around and sit down on the seat of the tub through the opening, the same as though sitting down in a chair….”
The above is a description of the invention of a “walk in bathtub” invented by William C. Brass and file with the United States Patent Office on November 1, 1960 and was patented on July 11, 1961.
Walk in bathtubs, also called safety tubs or walk-in tub. The design of the walk in tub did not change much since then, basically it is still a bathtub with a door opening through a side or an end of the tub; but the features and comfort of the Tub has greatly improved over the last 47 years.
Some of the improvements include a water tight door which swings open when the tub is empty; creating a low step in threshold, usually range from 5’ to 10’, depending on the model. Another improvement feature an integral molded seat built into the tub.
Once the bather is properly seated, a pressure balanced or thermostatic controls faucet makes water temperature adjustments much easier than in a traditional bathtub.
A walk in tub may also contain a hand held shower, and/or Jacuzzi-style therapeutic water jets. Therapeutic jets can sooth aching muscles and restore some mobility.
Walk in bathtubs are primarily marketed towards the elderly or disabled population. Walk-in tub comes in different sizes; some are taller and narrower, making them ideal for smaller spaces such as laundry rooms and converted closets. If a homeowner should become a caretaker for an elderly or infirmed relative, a walk-in bathtub may be a good option for a second bathroom.
For more independent living, some walk in tubs includes a transfer bar and side rails.
Their compact design and added features have proven appealing to a wide range of customers. The small and compact size of some walk in tub is great for trailer as well and also used it as an in home spa.
Door Types:
Inward Swing Door:
An inward-swinging door allows the user to walk directly into the tub, but he or she must maneuver around the door once inside the tub. This may not be easy for a handicapped user.
As the tub fills, the pressure of the water keeps the inward-swinging door closed tightly. Until the water is completely drained, the door will not open easily. This could be troublesome in an emergency.
Most walk-in bathtubs sold today use an inward-swinging door because the design is cost effective.
Outward Swing Door:
A walk-in bathtub with outward-swinging doors uses mechanical means to insure a tighter seal.
The main advantage of an outward-swinging door is a quicker escape during an emergency, because the door can still be opened quickly when the tub is filled.
Walk-in bathtubs with outward-swinging doors may be more expensive, but for certain types of physical conditions they may be a better choice.
Sliding Door:
The door slides opens and closes by sliding door in its track. It usually have no bulky levers or drop pins.
The door easily glides to open when the tub is empty.
It has a unique seal design that uses water pressure to increase seal integrity, preventing leaks and accidental opening.
Sliding door doesn't get in the way of legs, walkers or wheelchairs.
Upward Swing Door:
The door swings upward to open & swings down to closed.
It has the same advantage as the sliding door type; the door doesn't get in the way of legs, walkers or wheelchairs.
Two type of walk in Bathtub available for a bather.
There are two types of walk in tub; they are the “Step-in” type and the “Slide-in” type.
Choosing which type of tub is depending on the bather’s needs.
“STEP-IN” type
The general criteria for using a “step-in” type walk-in tub is that the bather be capable of taking one or two steps (with or without assistance), and can stand on one leg and raise one foot the height of a standard stair step to clear the threshold, and then stand on that leg while moving the other foot into the walk-in bathtub.
“SLIDE-IN” type
If standing and stepping into a walk-in tub is not practical for any reason, the “slide-in” type is designed specifically for transferring directly into the bathing environment. Most “slide-in” type tub are design for easy wheel chair transfer and also compatible with most patient transfer device.
Tub shell construction.
Gel-coat fiberglass.
Because of their depth, walk-in bathtubs are typically made from gel-coated fiberglass, including the side doors. The reason for using fiberglass in manufacturing walk-in tubs lies in the technical difficulties and cost in forming the deep basin of the tub with a single sheet of acrylic.
Acrylic Sheet.
New manufacturing methods are now making it possible to vacuum form deep walk-in tubs using acrylic sheets.
Acrylic is the material of choice for leading bathtub manufacturers and trade professionals throughout the world and offers many advantages over fiberglass:
• Non-porous germ and stain resistant surface provides a healthier bathing environment.
• Increased durability means the surface resists fading, staining, chipping and cracking.
• High-gloss finish is easier to clean and keeps its luster longer.
• Better heat retaining properties for warmer water.
Things you need to know before you purchase a walk-in tub.
1. Which type of walk-in tub meets your needs?
2. Safety feature of the walk-in tub.
3. Do you need a whirlpool in the tub?
4. The layout of your existing bathroom or the room you intend to install the walk-in tub.
5. The opening of door way and hallway, can the walk-in tub passed through the door & hallway?
6. Make sure you have are the materials needs for your project before you start the remodeling work.
More information about walk in Bathtub
Their compact design and added features have proven appealing to a wide range of customers. The small and compact size of some walk in tub is great for trailer as well and also used it as an in home spa.
What is a walk in tub or walk in bathtub?
“This invention relates to a bath tub construction primarily designed for use by those who may be handicapped, ill, or otherwise limited in activities and strength, and which also may be used in the ordinary conception of a bath tub.
A primary object of the invention is to provide a structure which may have a door opening through a side or an end of the tub, and toward which opening a seat may be moved over the floor of the bath tub, the floor of the tub being at that elevation above a room floor so that the bather may turn around and sit down on the seat of the tub through the opening, the same as though sitting down in a chair….”
The above is a description of the invention of a “walk in bathtub” invented by William C. Brass and file with the United States Patent Office on November 1, 1960 and was patented on July 11, 1961.
Walk in bathtubs, also called safety tubs or walk-in tub. The design of the walk in tub did not change much since then, basically it is still a bathtub with a door opening through a side or an end of the tub; but the features and comfort of the Tub has greatly improved over the last 47 years.
Some of the improvements include a water tight door which swings open when the tub is empty; creating a low step in threshold, usually range from 5’ to 10’, depending on the model. Another improvement feature an integral molded seat built into the tub.
Once the bather is properly seated, a pressure balanced or thermostatic controls faucet makes water temperature adjustments much easier than in a traditional bathtub.
A walk in tub may also contain a hand held shower, and/or Jacuzzi-style therapeutic water jets. Therapeutic jets can sooth aching muscles and restore some mobility.
Walk in bathtubs are primarily marketed towards the elderly or disabled population. Walk-in tub comes in different sizes; some are taller and narrower, making them ideal for smaller spaces such as laundry rooms and converted closets. If a homeowner should become a caretaker for an elderly or infirmed relative, a walk-in bathtub may be a good option for a second bathroom.
For more independent living, some walk in tubs includes a transfer bar and side rails.
Their compact design and added features have proven appealing to a wide range of customers. The small and compact size of some walk in tub is great for trailer as well and also used it as an in home spa.
Door Types:
Inward Swing Door:
An inward-swinging door allows the user to walk directly into the tub, but he or she must maneuver around the door once inside the tub. This may not be easy for a handicapped user.
As the tub fills, the pressure of the water keeps the inward-swinging door closed tightly. Until the water is completely drained, the door will not open easily. This could be troublesome in an emergency.
Most walk-in bathtubs sold today use an inward-swinging door because the design is cost effective.
Outward Swing Door:
A walk-in bathtub with outward-swinging doors uses mechanical means to insure a tighter seal.
The main advantage of an outward-swinging door is a quicker escape during an emergency, because the door can still be opened quickly when the tub is filled.
Walk-in bathtubs with outward-swinging doors may be more expensive, but for certain types of physical conditions they may be a better choice.
Sliding Door:
The door slides opens and closes by sliding door in its track. It usually have no bulky levers or drop pins.
The door easily glides to open when the tub is empty.
It has a unique seal design that uses water pressure to increase seal integrity, preventing leaks and accidental opening.
Sliding door doesn't get in the way of legs, walkers or wheelchairs.
Upward Swing Door:
The door swings upward to open & swings down to closed.
It has the same advantage as the sliding door type; the door doesn't get in the way of legs, walkers or wheelchairs.
Two type of walk in Bathtub available for a bather.
There are two types of walk in tub; they are the “Step-in” type and the “Slide-in” type.
Choosing which type of tub is depending on the bather’s needs.
“STEP-IN” type
The general criteria for using a “step-in” type walk-in tub is that the bather be capable of taking one or two steps (with or without assistance), and can stand on one leg and raise one foot the height of a standard stair step to clear the threshold, and then stand on that leg while moving the other foot into the walk-in bathtub.
“SLIDE-IN” type
If standing and stepping into a walk-in tub is not practical for any reason, the “slide-in” type is designed specifically for transferring directly into the bathing environment. Most “slide-in” type tub are design for easy wheel chair transfer and also compatible with most patient transfer device.
Tub shell construction.
Gel-coat fiberglass.
Because of their depth, walk-in bathtubs are typically made from gel-coated fiberglass, including the side doors. The reason for using fiberglass in manufacturing walk-in tubs lies in the technical difficulties and cost in forming the deep basin of the tub with a single sheet of acrylic.
Acrylic Sheet.
New manufacturing methods are now making it possible to vacuum form deep walk-in tubs using acrylic sheets.
Acrylic is the material of choice for leading bathtub manufacturers and trade professionals throughout the world and offers many advantages over fiberglass:
• Non-porous germ and stain resistant surface provides a healthier bathing environment.
• Increased durability means the surface resists fading, staining, chipping and cracking.
• High-gloss finish is easier to clean and keeps its luster longer.
• Better heat retaining properties for warmer water.
Things you need to know before you purchase a walk-in tub.
1. Which type of walk-in tub meets your needs?
2. Safety feature of the walk-in tub.
3. Do you need a whirlpool in the tub?
4. The layout of your existing bathroom or the room you intend to install the walk-in tub.
5. The opening of door way and hallway, can the walk-in tub passed through the door & hallway?
6. Make sure you have are the materials needs for your project before you start the remodeling work.
More information about walk in Bathtub
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