Perceived attributes and dimensions of accessibility in adapted bathrooms

This work aims to explore the perceived accessibility of adapted toilets according to the user’s perspective, indicating the relevance of their attributes and features for persons with reduced mobility. There are recent studies addressing accessibility, but few focus on adapted toilets, making this study of adapted toilets in Brazil unique. A total of 98 disabled users with restricted mobility and carers took part in a survey after using adapted toilets. The study sample variance resulted in 27 attributes, distributed in eight factors: accessories, transit ability, access, hydro sanitary facilities, facilities, openings, safety, and ergonomic comfort. Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to identify attributes with impact on general satisfaction. The results identified three primary attributes in terms of design, execution and improvement of the user experience. Findings demonstrate a gap between the recommended standards and what the user perceives to be important, which has ramifications for the further development of standards and the design and construction of adapted toilets. The implication is that it is necessary to pay more attention to what the users need, and thus help to improve the users' experience, satisfaction and wellbeing.