Case Study: Sarah's Bathroom Transformation

# Case Study: Sarah's Bathroom Transformation

## Background

## The Story

Sarah was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis fifteen years ago. For most of that time, she maintained her independence with minimal support. However, in the past two years, her condition progressed significantly. What started as occasional use of a walking stick evolved to requiring a walker full-time, and her occupational therapist suggested preparing for eventual wheelchair use.

The most challenging part of Sarah's day had become using her bathroom. The standard 1980s design featured:

## The Crisis Point

**March 2024** - Sarah fell while attempting to exit the shower, resulting in a minor fracture to her wrist. This incident was the catalyst for change.

*"I'd been avoiding showering because it was so difficult and frightening. That fall made me realize I couldn't keep living this way. I was sacrificing my hygiene and dignity out of fear."* - Sarah

## Assessment and Planning

**April 2024** - Occupational therapist David Morrison conducted a comprehensive bathroom assessment:

### Current Barriers

### Goals Established

## Design Solution

### Key Design Decisions

**Complete Bathroom Redesign** rather than piecemeal modifications:

### Design Philosophy

*"We wanted to create a space that felt like a sanctuary, not a hospital room. Sarah deserved beauty alongside function."* - Emma Richardson

## Funding Process

### NDIS Application

**April 2024** - David Morrison prepared comprehensive OT report:

Quote Comparison:

Selected Melbourne Accessible Bathrooms for:

Approval Timeline:

## Construction Process

**May 13 - June 21, 2024** - Six weeks including planning

### Week 1: Demolition and Preparation

Day 1-2:

Day 3-5:

### Week 2-3: Core Construction

Shower Installation:

Flooring Work:

Wall Preparation:

### Week 4-5: Fixtures and Finishes

Toilet Installation:

Vanity Installation:

Shower Finishes:

Door:

### Week 6: Final Touches

Lighting:

Accessories:

Ventilation:

Final Inspection:

## Features in Detail

### Roll-In Shower

Shower Seat:

Controls:

Shower Heads:

Grab Rails:

### Accessible Toilet

Bidet Function:

Grab Rails:

### Accessible Vanity

Basin:

Tap:

Storage:

### Doorway Modification

## Life After Transformation

**June 21, 2024** - Sarah uses her new bathroom for the first time

*"I actually cried when I saw it. It's beautiful - but more than that, I felt safe. For the first time in years, I wasn't afraid of my own bathroom."* - Sarah

### Daily Impact

Morning Routine - Before:

Morning Routine - After:

### Independence Regained

Toilet Use:

Self-Care:

### Emotional Impact

*"I underestimated how much my bathroom struggles were affecting my mental health. I was becoming isolated because I couldn't maintain my hygiene independently. Now I feel human again."* - Sarah

Changes Noted:

## Three Months Later

**September 2024** - Follow-up occupational therapy assessment

### Outcomes Achieved

Functional Improvements:

Design Success:

### Minor Adjustments

Added After Completion:

### Unexpected Benefits

Energy Efficiency:

Property Value:

## Cost Breakdown

Total: $42,500

## Technical Specifications

Compliance:

Products Used:

## Professional Team

## Lessons Learned

### What Worked Well

### Challenges Overcome

## Advice for Others

### Sarah's Tips

*"Don't wait until you're in crisis like I did. If you're struggling, start the conversation with your OT now. The process takes time, so begin before you absolutely need it."*

Key Recommendations:

### David Morrison (OT) Insights

*"Bathrooms are often the most critical home modification. They impact dignity, health, safety, and independence. Sarah's case demonstrates that NDIS will fund comprehensive solutions when properly justified."*

Professional Tips:

## Six Months Later

**December 2024** - Sarah reflects on her transformation

*"This bathroom gave me back my independence and self-respect. I can invite friends over without worrying about my hygiene. I can participate in life again. It sounds dramatic, but it's truly life-changing."*

Current Status:

Unexpected Joy:

*"I actually look forward to my morning shower now. The warm floor, the good lighting, the feeling of safety - it's become a peaceful start to my day instead of something I dreaded."*

## Conclusion

Sarah's bathroom transformation demonstrates that relatively modest home modifications can have profound impacts on quality of life, independence, and dignity. The $42,500 investment:

### The Real Value

While the financial cost was $42,500, the value to Sarah is immeasurable:

Sarah's Final Words:

*"If you're struggling with your bathroom, don't suffer in silence. There is help available. Talk to your OT, explore your options. You deserve to feel safe and dignified in your own home. I wish I hadn't waited so long."*

## Resources