Bathroom adaptations are expensive and local authorities usually have strict eligibility criteria for adaptations to property. An  assessment of need by local authority Occupational Therapist is essential. Contact your local authority for details of how to get an assessment. This is usually done if the person is wheelchair bound or has severely impaired mobility and cannot access a normal bathroom so a whole new wet-room is required. However the whole process can be very lengthy taking months or in some instances up to a year from referral to completion. This depends on the size of the bathroom, the plumbing works as pipe work may have to be moved and if the person’s health has deteriorated or is likely to worsen.

Local authorities have their own guidelines and some offer improvement grants towards the cost of the adaptation. Unless you are on a low income you will usually be expected to contribute to the cost of the adaptation. This amount will vary depending on income and savings.

Other major adaptations can include widening bathroom doorways or fitting an over head tracking hoist between rooms. If you are considering a major adaptation funded entirely by yourself, try to get as much information and advice on what you actually need, what is available to meet that need. Reputable companies will take care of the entire installation project but you should get several quotes to compare prices of the work you are looking for.

There are five disabled living centers across Scotland where you can make an appointment to see bathrooms and possible bathing equipment.