A wheelchair accessible sink is an essential element of aging in place bathroom design. The average lifespan is increasing, but most houses aren’t designed with seniors in mind or able to keep up with the growing demands of older adults, especially those who have limited mobility.
An accessible bathroom sink allows a person seated in a chair or a wheelchair user to access the sink easily. Fortunately, there are many ways to create an accessible sink that is stylish, handicap-accessible, and functional for everyone.
What is a wheelchair accessible bathroom sink?
The main feature of a wheelchair or handicap-accessible sink is a space underneath the countertop. It creates a roll-under vanity and allows someone’s legs to easily fit beneath, enabling convenient use of the sink while seated in a chair or wheelchair. Some bathroom vanities and sinks are more suited for wheelchair accessibility, including wall mount sinks, open vanities, and pedestal sinks.
Why is a wheelchair-accessible sink important for senior bathrooms?
A typical bathroom vanity has a countertop that sits on top of a cabinet that extends to the floor. While this style is popular, it isn’t a good choice for seniors who want to age in place since sitting at the sink is essentially impossible with the base cabinet in the way.
As people age, they often develop conditions that can make it harder to stand for extended periods. Because sinks are used multiple times per day, these individuals and wheelchair users need to have an easy access sink and vanity.
Key considerations for an accessible sink
Sink height
Make sure that the sink is at a comfortable height. Generally, a sink height of 32 to 34 inches from the floor is ideal. Sink height can be customized for any height user. For a sink mounted on top of the countertop, measure to the highest point of the sink edge.
Sink location and depth
Place the sink as close to the countertop’s front as possible so the seated user can reach the basin and faucet. Likewise, the farther the distance from the front to the back of the sink, the more difficult it will be for the seated person to reach the back of the sink. Most sinks are 16 to 23 inches from front to back, so choosing a more expansive depth sink can be an issue for seated people.
Faucet position
Faucets are often placed at the back of the sink so having a shorter distance from the front to the rear is vital to reach the controls. A side-mounted faucet will provide the most accessible position for those with limited range of motion. Still, it may not work well if you’re trying to keep plumbing lines to the rear.
Faucet design
A swivel faucet will provide more flexibility for those who have limited movement and for improved washbasin access. Lever handle faucets are more straightforward to operate than faucets with knobs because they require less grip strength. A single-lever faucet is simpler to use compared to a tap with dual handles.
Touchless sensor faucets for household use are becoming increasingly popular. They are the most user-friendly option because they require the least amount of effort to operate.
Sink plumbing
The sink itself must be plumbed so that someone seated either in a wheelchair or a chair will have enough room underneath without their legs touching the pipes. Pipes can be concealed behind the wall. Installing a shortened drain pipe is another option. Any exposed pipes should have a protective covering to prevent burns if touched.
Types of wheelchair accessible bathroom sinks
Open vanity designs work best for wheelchair accessibility because there is clear space beneath the sink for the seated person’s legs. Several basic sink designs facilitate open vanities. Each design can be customized for specific needs.
Convertible vanity
A convertible vanity generally has a base cabinet capable of transforming or being removed while allowing the sink and countertop to remain. This vanity design could provide storage space at times when seated or wheelchair access isn’t needed.
Another alternative is a vanity with retractable cabinet doors beneath the sink allowing the space to open to the floor as needed for wheelchair use. Still, it can easily be closed to cover the plumbing and give the look of a bank of cabinetry.
Wall mount sink
A wall-hung sink is another good choice for aging in place bathroom design. Wall mounted sinks attach directly onto a wall instead of resting on top of cabinetry, legs, or a pedestal supported by the floor.
A wall-mounted sink can be attached at any height that accommodates the plumbing. Because a wall-hung sink protrudes from the wall and doesn’t touch the floor, it is often referred to as a floating sink or floating vanity. This terminology has gained popularity in recent years.
Pedestal sink
A pedestal sink is a standalone structure with a single base and one basin design. They are often smaller in size and have limited countertop space. Pedestal sinks are a good choice when floor space is limited because of their compact size.
Console sink
This type of sink design is a cross between a wall-hung sink and a pedestal sink. A console sink, also referred to as a console vanity, is attached to the wall. It’s supported by two or more legs, depending on the sink size and the support needed. It’s essential to have sturdy legs that are wide enough to hold the structure and body weight when leaned on.
Adjustable height sink
A height-adjustable sink is the most versatile option, especially for wheelchair users. These sinks have legs that can be made longer or shorter or the entire sink may be height adjustable by a wall-mounted track system with electric controls. A flexible height range is beneficial for someone seated as well as someone standing at the sink.
Advantages of a handicap accessible vanity
Ease of use
An accessible sink’s usefulness is not limited to wheelchair users. Because a handicapped-accessible vanity allows anybody of any age or skill level to use it, it is practical for everyone.
Easy to clean
The floor beneath a sink can be challenging to clean because it is often hidden, dark, and hard to reach. With an accessible design, the space under the sink remains open for cleaning.
Economical choice
Designing a bathroom with a forward-thinking universal design will likely save money in the long term by avoiding a future large-scale remodeling project. Creating a versatile sink that works for any situation is a good investment.
Aging in place bathroom design is essential for any homeowner because it can be challenging to modify bathrooms once they are built. Still, there are ways to accommodate people with disabilities when aging occurs. The critical elements to consider are safety and comfort while using the lavatory.
Disadvantages of wheelchair accessible sinks
Compared to the many life-enhancing benefits of an accessible sink, the cons are few. Minimize any disadvantages with creativity and thorough planning.
Exposed pipes
One disadvantage of an open vanity is that plumbing lines aren’t hidden. Locating pipes toward the back of the sink will make it easier to disguise or cover them.
There are a variety of ways to hide plumbing pipes with cabinetry modifications, curtains, and pipe covers. Some people choose to keep the pipes exposed for a modern, industrial look.
Lack of storage space
In a bathroom, storage space is often limited. A typical storage area is under the sink, but with an accessible sink, this area isn’t available. Think creatively about ways to add flexible storage options with removable or adjustable shelves and moveable or convertible cabinets or drawers. Another option is a rolling cart or drawers on wheels able to be moved where needed.
Additional features & considerations of a well-planned accessible sink
Mirror placement
Position a mirror above the sink so the user can see their face and torso area. Sometimes the top of the mirror must be angled downward.
Consider incorporating a smaller mirror on an extendable arm for more angles of visibility. These are generally magnification mirrors attached to the wall or wall mirror.
Cabinet and drawer handles
D-shaped cabinet handles are easier to use compared to knob-style handles that require more gripping ability. Look for cabinet and drawer handles with rounded edges since wheelchair users may accidentally strike them while navigating in confined bathroom areas.
Safety rails and grab bars
Customize accessible sinks with grab rails or handles for safety and convenience. Grab bars can be helpful to pull oneself up to or stand safely at the sink.
Lighting
Bathroom lighting fixtures should provide enough light for those who will be both sitting and standing at the sink. Reduce glare as much as possible.
Color contrast
Age-related vision deficits reduce the ability to distinguish various surfaces from one another. Make the color of the countertop contrast with the floor color to avoid reaching for or placing something next to the sink, only to realize it isn’t on the countertop. Read more about decorating for older eyes.
Accessible sinks create a flexible, aging-friendly bathroom
Wheelchair accessible bathroom sinks provide the flexibility to adapt for different users with varying needs as abilities and circumstances change. This is what makes a wheelchair-accessible sink an excellent option for every bathroom, especially an aging in place bathroom.
The event that causes the need for wheelchair access often occurs quickly and during a time of crisis and stress, which is not ideal for planning and doing a renovation. Save time, money, effort, and expense by designing an accessible sink into your bathroom remodel right from the start.
For help planning a convenient bathroom that is also senior-friendly and ready for aging in place, grab our Home Modifications Guide. Ensure you include the right features for your next bathroom remodeling project!
