Over the next 40 years it is predicted that nearly a quarter of Australia’s population will be aged 65 years and over, and people 85 and over will make up around 6 percent of the total population.

With such a large proportion of the population reaching an age where some level of care is generally required, significant changes to the way we design and build are inevitable. An increased desire among this segment of the population towards independent living only adds to the need for architects and designers, as well as occupational therapists and other health professionals to explore and embrace new design methods.

Central to providing independent living for the elderly is the concept of ageing in place. Ageing in place is a term used to describe a person living in the residence of their choice, for as long as they are able, as they age. For this to be made possible, liveable home design is key.

A person’s residence must be made liveable not only for their current requirements, but must also be adaptable to their changing needs as they continue to age and their abilities are reduced.

As one of the most frequented rooms in the house, as well as traditionally containing a high prevalence of hazards that increase the risk of falls, special consideration must be given to bathroom design when designing for independent living.

Allowance for changing levels of mobility is critical to creating a bathroom that promotes independent living. Despite this requirement, most bathrooms have been found to be inflexible in their design.

A Housing and Independent Living report recently found that 40% of bathrooms did not have an easy to reach shower tap, 80% did not have a grab rail in the shower, and an enormous 96% of bathrooms did not make provisions for a folding seat in the shower.

To address the growing need for architects and health professionals to provide independent living solutions and embrace liveable home design, Con-Serv Australia provides a range of products with a focus on liveability, functionality as well as aesthetics.

Con-Serv possesses over 30 years of knowledge and experience in providing architects and health professionals the confidence and flexibility for bathroom design. The Con-Serv range of products covers every aspect of bathroom functionality including grab rails, shower seats, toilet back rest and complete shower systems.

To find out more click here to download this free white paper from Con-Serv ‘Ageing in Place – Bathroom Design for Independent Living’.