Stuart Reynolds at AKW describes the ‘quick wins’ available to specifiers when it comes to adaptations for kitchens and bathrooms that make appliances far easier to use for millions of people with arthritis.
Arthritis 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 affects 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 first images that come to mind are swollen knuckles and knees, that can affect 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 The Occupational Therapy Service has created guidance to help social landlords improve tenants’ bathrooms, kitchens and overall lives. The measures in the guidance are designed to help create thoughtful adaptations, and using the right products in the right places, create cost-efficient, 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, flushes and controls that are lever-operated or have infrared sensors, with clear hot/cold temperature indicators where necessary. Think 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 fluted grab rails, as they feel these offer 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 flooring, 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 showering and toileting easier and can be quickly incorporated.
Higher impact adaptations – mobility and reach can make sinks and baths difficult to use or inaccessible, so replace the bath with a level-access shower.
Due to hip, knee and spine limitations, it might be necessary to install wash/dry toilets with automated or easy-to-use controls that do not rely on gross motor skills, raised-height toilets or bidets.
KITCHEN ADJUSTMENTS
Once again, quick wins – similar to the bathroom, dexterity can cause major usage problems in the kitchen for those living with arthritis. Simple ‘switch outs’ can make a world of difference, including: D-handles on storage, which are easier to pull open compared to knobs, or cupboards that can be opened by pushing rather than pulling. When it comes to sinks and taps, single lever or touchless control taps can be beneficial in eliminating the need to grip. Also movement around the space is key. The kitchen can benefit from the addition of seating/rest areas to support functioning whilst seated.
Higher impact adaptations – bending and reaching are both difficult for those with mobility and balance issues, so think about including height-adjustable worktops, that sinks and hobs can be fitted into. These maximise accessibility, multi-user functioning, and future-proof the space to support someone with a degenerative condition such as arthritis. As well as moving worktops to a more suitable height, move kitchen equipment such as the oven to waist height. In addition, consider using heat-resistant pull-out tables to minimise the carrying or moving of hot items. Also consider fitting pull-down baskets, pull-out larders and drawers, or use solutions incorporating automated operation, to bring the contents closer to the user.
LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS NEEDN’T BE COMPLICATED
Some people think of adaptations as needing a full-scale refurbishment however for many living with arthritis – which is a progressive condition – even the quick wins can make a big difference. By adding seating or resting areas, positioning everyday objects within reach and at waist height where possible and thinking about safe transfer additions such as grab rails, a life can be transformed.
Stuart Reynolds is UK marketing & product management director at AKW