Arthritis friendly bathrooms: A guide to the latest best practice for care homes

Over 10 million people in the UK live with arthritis and — when including broader musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions — this rises to over 20 million, according to Arthritis UK. That's close to one in every three people based on today's UK population. Not surprisingly, when it comes to care homes, the number with these conditions rises significantly, with an analysis of a longtitudinal study of ageing in the UK estimating 60 per cent of residents are affected.

Although each care home cohort will have their own specific mix of needs, it is safe to assume that a large proportion of residents in every care home across the country will be struggling with movement, pain and stiffness, particularly in relation to toileting, showering and bathing. With bathrooms one of the most demanding spaces for those living with arthritis and MSK conditions, thoughtful adaptation can help reduce obstacles to use. However, with arthritis symptoms specific to each user, the new guidance from Arthritis UK, The Occupational Therapy Service and AKW gives care home providers an overview of latest best practice for bathroom adaptation to make them suitable for those experiencing the more common issues related to arthritis.

Before beginning to discuss the specifics of bathroom adaptation for those living with arthritis in care homes, it's useful to be reminded of what the condition is and how it impacts daily life. Arthritis is a progressive and often painful condition that affects joint mobility, grip strength, and endurance, and can significantly impact a resident's day-to-day activities. It is not one single disease, but is a term that refers to the swelling, stiffness and pain in one or more joints which typically worsen with age and can have a considerable impact on a person's ability to complete tasks and activities that bring meaning and purpose to their lives.