Human Scale:
11. Healthcare in the Bathroom

03/25

People's perception of their health is no longer based solely on how they feel, but also on what they actively do for their health.

Vitamin gels, cosmetics, masks and gymnastics are just as much a part of health care activities in the bathroom as the treatment of aches and pains and annoying skin diseases. These activities should be carried out in a protected area that is as hygienic as it is comfortable. This includes a pleasant climate, a stool or personal storage space behind doors for medication and various health gadgets. In this way, the bathroom becomes a hub for personal health.

Home care is an important area for healthcare in the bathroom. For this to work in the long term, an adapted bathroom is a prerequisite - also to protect the well-being and privacy of people in need of care. For example, if people in need of care have to use the washbasin sitting down, all accessories on the washbasin, such as soap dispensers, cups or towel rails, should be within easy reach. If the assistance of a carer is required, they must be able to stand next to the washbasin and have sufficient space to help with daily care. In any case, the spatial conditions of the bathroom must provide space for both professional carers and those in need of care.

Activity	Realisation	Bathroom planning
Maintain hygiene (e.g. dry and change towels well)	Hygienic surfaces, rimless WC, easy-to-clean drains, hygienic toilet brush	Provide separate towels for each person (sufficient hooks/towel holders); storage space for cleaning products Practise hygiene routines (e.g. closing toilet lids, washing hands, changing toothbrushes regularly, etc.).
Measure fever	Thermometer	Fixed storage location Collection box for batteries
Medical skin care	Washbasin with good lighting and storage options	Closed storage space A nice place for tedious routines builds self-confidence
Combing hair	Mirror	at seat height
Caring for a person in need of care	Sufficient space for 2-3 people, grab handles, seating	Freedom of movement is essential Barrier-free design makes life easier
Applying plasters, changing dressings	Freedom of movement, first aid cabinet/storage space	Seating area, good lighting; possibly magnifying mirror, cosmetic bucket Dedicated, quickly accessible storage space, possibly a handy container
Sit and rest	Stable seating also in the shower area	Attractive design and use in the bathroom
Measure blood pressure	Chair, bench	Plan an alternative to the bathtub rim or toilet seat Minimise the risk of falling (barrier-free bathroom)
Aromatherapy		Create storage options, ensure ventilation Caution with allergies
Treating sunburn	Freedom of movement	Good lighting, large mirror
Kneipp treatments	Dustable washbasin, sufficient width	Design washbasin for arm and face washes Kneipp therapy also possible with limited movement
Check health values	Smart WC (future concept)	Storage space for measuring devices Persuasion: more space for health (than for cosmetics, for example)
Treatment of warts or fungal diseases	Washbasin with sufficient storage space	Plan good lighting at the washbasin/at a seat Storage space with doors, hygiene: separate personal storage spaces
Injection of insulin etc.	Seating	Fixed, easily accessible storage space A nice place for such important routines creates a secure feeling
Medical baths / hydrotherapy	If possible, ergonomic bathtub, possibly with integrated seating; shower	Storage options and handles on the bath and shower; possibly secure shelves for candles etc. Health treatments in a beautiful setting ensure a greater sense of well-being; pay attention to bath additives and material compatibility
Taking medication	Create storage space	Fixed space for weekly box etc. Preference: Place behind a door or always clearly visible?
Palpate breast for lumps	Shower; room to move	Full-length mirror, vanity mirror, good, warm light A nice place for such important routines creates a secure feeling
Carry out inhalations	Washbasin with sufficient room to move (also under the washbasin) and storage space	Seating; define work surface; possibly storage space for electric inhaler Inhalations need peace and quiet; a timer or a playlist help with performance and enjoyment
Carry out a pregnancy test	Toilet
Adhere to daily routines	Storage space for medication etc.	Wall calendar, clock etc. The bathroom guarantees safety