Blog | Stairlifts Dublin | Mobility Shop

Accessible Bathrooms

3 Ways Accessible Wet Rooms Boost Independence at Home

Level Access Showers with Full Height Elegance Doors

10Jan2023

If you’re elderly, living with a disability, or experiencing limited mobility, transforming your bathroom into a wet room could be life-changing. Wet rooms offer significant benefits for anyone struggling with traditional bathroom layouts and can dramatically enhance daily comfort and safety. This guide explores three key ways accessible wet rooms promote independent living and improve quality of life at home.

Increase Bathroom Accessibility

Accessible wet rooms transform bathroom usability by eliminating barriers that make traditional bathrooms difficult to navigate. The level-floor design removes the need to step over shower trays, which can be challenging for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users. With step-free access, getting in and out of the shower becomes significantly easier and safer.

The spacious, open-plan layout provides ample room for wheelchair maneuvering and doesn’t feel cramped or restrictive. Most wet rooms include wide openings and generous clearance spaces that accommodate mobility aids like walkers, wheelchairs, and transfer equipment. This thoughtful design ensures you can move freely and comfortably throughout the space without obstacles.

Make Your Bathroom Safer

Bathrooms are among the most accident-prone areas in any home, with bathroom-related accidents accounting for nearly 14% of all home injuries. In Ireland, 70% of accidents involving older adults occur at home, with falls from standing height being the leading cause of major trauma. Accessible wet rooms address these risks directly through safer design features.

The single-level floor eliminates tripping hazards that traditional raised shower trays create. Non-slip flooring materials with R11-R13 ratings reduce fall risk by up to 70%. Additional safety features like grab bars, fold-down shower seats, handrails, and adjustable-height fixtures can be integrated seamlessly into the design without making the space feel institutional or clinical. These features provide stability and support while maintaining a modern, stylish appearance.

Support Independent Living and Confidence

Accessible wet rooms empower individuals to regain their independence and use their bathroom without constant assistance. This restored autonomy can significantly boost confidence and mental well-being for those who previously struggled with daily bathing routines. The ability to manage personal care independently enhances dignity and self-esteem.

Research shows that 33% of adults over 65 in Ireland fall each year, with fear of falling leading to reduced physical activity and increased frailty. A well-designed wet room eliminates this fear and allows people to maintain their daily routines comfortably. Rather than facing the difficult decision to move house, accessible wet rooms enable you to age in place and remain in the familiar comfort of your own home.

Funding Your Wet Room Installation

Irish homeowners can access substantial financial support through the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability. Recent 2025 updates have made grants more accessible than ever:

Maximum grant of €40,000 for homes built more than 12 months ago
100% coverage of approved costs for households earning up to €37,500 annually
Increased income threshold to €75,000 per year, allowing more families to qualify
Grants cover accessible showers, grab rails, non-slip flooring, and other essential bathroom modifications

Applications are processed through local authorities, and excluded income sources like Carer’s Allowance and Disability Living Allowance make qualifying easier for many households.

Professional Wet Room Installation in Ireland

At Irish Stairlifts, we’ve been trusted leaders in home mobility solutions since 1999, helping Irish families make their homes more comfortable and accessible. Our accessible wet rooms feature waterproof level-floor entry, professional-grade drainage systems, and slip-resistant mosaic tiles installed to the highest standards.

Our wet room installations include:

Chrome galley trap drainage systems for effective water management
Underfloor waterproof trays in multiple sizes with complete wall sealing
Slip-resistant safety flooring throughout the shower area
Custom fitting to your specifications for optimal accessibility
Installation available on any level of your home

As approved council suppliers of accessible bathroom equipment, we work with clients throughout Ireland to design and install wet rooms that enhance safety, increase independence, and improve quality of life.

Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?

Don’t let bathroom accessibility challenges limit your independence. Contact Irish Stairlifts today for a free, no-obligation quotation and discover how an accessible wet room can transform your daily life. Our experienced team will guide you through design options, grant applications, and the complete installation process.

Get in touch:

Phone: +353 (0)1 616 70 79 or +353 (0) 45 892696
Email: showroom@irishstairlifts.ie
Request a quote: irishstairlifts.ie/request-a-quotation

Visit our walk-in showers page to explore more accessible bathroom solutions and learn how we can help you live safely and independently in your own home.

Why You Might Need a Wheelchair

6Jan2023

Wheelchairs serve as essential mobility aids for millions of people worldwide, providing independence and improving quality of life across various circumstances. Understanding the diverse reasons people rely on wheelchairs helps create more inclusive communities and ensures individuals can access the right mobility solutions for their needs.

Age-Related Mobility Changes

As we age, our bodies naturally experience changes that can affect mobility and stamina. Tasks that once felt effortless—like walking to local shops or navigating stairs—may become physically demanding or even impossible. Many older adults find that using a wheelchair allows them to maintain their independence and continue participating in daily activities without exhaustion or risk of falls.

Modern wheelchairs designed for seniors prioritize comfort and ease of use, whether for occasional outings or daily needs. Family members and caregivers can provide assistance when needed, ensuring loved ones remain socially active and engaged.

Post-Surgery and Injury Recovery

Following major surgery, medical procedures, or significant injuries, doctors often prescribe limited mobility during the recovery period. Using a wheelchair temporarily allows the body to heal properly without strain or setback risk. Whether recovering from hip replacement, spinal surgery, or major trauma, wheelchairs provide a safe mobility solution during the healing process.

Short-term wheelchair rentals offer an affordable option for temporary needs, typically ranging from several weeks to a few months. This investment in proper recovery can prevent complications and speed up the return to full mobility.

Enhanced Participation in Social Activities

Long outings—such as festivals, shopping trips, museums, or family gatherings—can be physically exhausting for individuals with limited stamina or mobility challenges. Wheelchairs enable people with disabilities or chronic conditions to fully participate in these experiences without fatigue cutting their day short.

Rather than missing important life moments or feeling sidelined, wheelchair users can enjoy the same activities as their companions. This accessibility tool transforms social experiences, ensuring everyone can create memories together regardless of physical limitations.

Permanent Mobility Impairments

For individuals living with permanent disabilities—whether from birth, progressive conditions, or accidents—wheelchairs provide essential daily mobility. Conditions such as spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and severe arthritis may make walking impossible or unsustainable.

Manual wheelchairs offer excellent solutions when upper body strength allows for self-propulsion, while also enabling caregivers or family members to provide assistance when needed. These chairs are typically lighter, more portable, and easier to transport than powered mobility scooters, making them ideal for various environments and living situations.

Chronic Health Conditions

Many chronic illnesses significantly impact energy levels and physical endurance. Conditions like heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome can make walking short distances exhausting. Wheelchairs allow individuals to conserve energy for activities that matter most while managing their condition effectively.

Part-time wheelchair users—those who can walk but benefit from wheeled mobility for longer distances—represent a growing demographic. This flexibility supports better health management and improved quality of life.

Find the Right Mobility Solution with Irish Stairlifts

Selecting the appropriate wheelchair requires understanding your specific needs, lifestyle, and environment. At Irish Stairlifts, we’ve spent over two decades helping individuals and families across Ireland find the perfect mobility solutions.

Our extensive range includes:

Lightweight manual wheelchairs for everyday use
Transport wheelchairs for caregiver assistance
Bariatric wheelchairs for additional support
Pediatric wheelchairs for children
Sports and active lifestyle wheelchairs

Beyond wheelchairs, we offer comprehensive mobility solutions including stairlifts, mobility scooters, and home accessibility equipment—everything you need to maintain independence and comfort in your own home.

Ready to discuss your mobility needs? Contact our expert team today at showroom@irishstairlifts.ie or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you find the right solution for your lifestyle and budget, backed by professional installation and ongoing support. Your independence matters—let us help you maintain it.

Accessible Bathrooms

Disabled Wetroom Design Guide 2025 | Key Planning Tips

30Dec2022

Across Ireland, individuals with mobility challenges are discovering how accessible wetrooms can transform daily life. Instead of struggling with traditional bathrooms that lack essential accessibility features, investing in a purpose-built wetroom offers independence, safety, and peace of mind. With over 25 years of experience transforming bathrooms into accessible spaces, Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms specializes in creating wetrooms tailored to individual needs.

Assess Physical Capabilities

Before beginning construction, evaluate current and future mobility requirements to inform design decisions that will significantly improve daily living. Consider whether walking aids, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters are part of the daily routine, as this determines essential features like door width, turning space, and floor clearance.

Strategic placement of grab rails near the toilet, shower area, and entrance provides critical support for maintaining balance and preventing falls. For wheelchair users, ensure adequate maneuvering space of at least 1.5 meters width to allow comfortable turning and positioning. Level-access design eliminates dangerous steps and raised shower trays, creating a seamless, barrier-free bathing environment.

Plan for Independence

Wetrooms excel at promoting independence for those living alone or wishing to reduce reliance on carers. The open-plan layout and carefully positioned features enable individuals to complete bathing tasks safely without assistance, maintaining dignity and autonomy.

For those requiring carer support, consider installing fold-down shower seats mounted to the wall, which provide seating when needed while maximizing floor space when not in use. Height-adjustable fixtures and lever-style taps enhance usability for people with varying abilities and strength levels. Anti-slip flooring throughout the wetroom reduces fall risk, which is particularly important for seniors and those with balance issues.

Budget Considerations

Wetroom installations in Ireland typically range from €3,500 to €10,000 depending on bathroom size, quality of materials, and accessibility features required. A basic accessible wetroom averages around €5,000, while comprehensive installations with premium finishes and advanced features can reach €10,000 or more.

Financial assistance may be available through the Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People, which provides up to €40,000 (covering up to 100% of approved costs) for necessary home modifications. The Mobility Aids Grant Scheme offers up to €6,000 for minor works addressing mobility challenges. Contact your local authority to determine eligibility and begin the application process before starting construction work.

Premium features like underfloor heating, digital shower controls, and large-format porcelain tiles increase costs but enhance comfort and property value. If working within tight budget constraints, prioritize essential safety features like grab rails and non-slip flooring, which can be installed more affordably than automated equipment while still providing significant safety benefits.

Current Design Trends

In 2025, Irish homeowners are embracing wetrooms that balance accessibility with contemporary style. Large-format porcelain tiles create seamless, easy-to-clean surfaces while minimizing grout lines where moisture can accumulate. Walk-in showers with frameless glass panels maximize visual space and light flow, particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms.

Curved edges in architecture and fixtures are trending throughout 2025, softening the bathroom environment while reducing injury risk from sharp corners. Minimalist designs with floating vanities and concealed storage maintain the open, accessible character essential for mobility. Modern wetrooms successfully integrate universal design principles without compromising aesthetic appeal, creating bathrooms that work beautifully for all family members regardless of ability.

Professional Installation

Professional installation by experienced specialists ensures wetrooms meet safety standards, accessibility requirements, and waterproofing specifications. Proper floor drainage, tanking of shower areas, compliant electrical work, and adequate ventilation prevent structural damage and mold growth. Installation typically takes 4-7 days, requiring coordination between plumbers, tilers, and electricians.

Working with specialists who understand Irish accessibility guidelines and building regulations ensures compliance with standards set by the National Disability Authority and Irish Wheelchair Association. Expert installers can also advise on optimal placement of features based on individual mobility patterns and requirements.

Transform Your Bathroom with Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms

Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms brings over 25 years of expertise in creating accessible wetrooms that enhance independence and quality of life for Irish families. The dedicated team understands that every client has unique mobility requirements, and they work closely with individuals to design wetrooms that meet specific needs while fitting within budget.

Customers consistently praise the professionalism, efficiency, and quality workmanship delivered by Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms, with many highlighting the friendly, supportive approach throughout the entire renovation process. From initial consultation through to final installation, the experienced craftspeople ensure every detail is executed to the highest standards.

Ready to create a safer, more accessible bathroom? Contact Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms today at 01 616 7079 or 0818 818 500 to schedule a free consultation and discover how a professionally designed wetroom can transform daily living.

Mobility Aids, Outdoor & Independence Solutions

What Are the Alternatives to Traditional Wheelchairs

21Dec2022

While wheelchairs have served individuals with mobility challenges for generations, today’s market offers innovative alternatives that provide greater independence, versatility, and comfort. These modern mobility aids combine advanced technology with practical design to meet diverse needs and lifestyles.

Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters represent one of the most popular wheelchair alternatives for those seeking powered mobility beyond their home. The global mobility scooter market continues to grow, driven by technological advancements and an aging population.

Modern scooters feature intelligent designs with storage compartments, quick disassembly for transport, and all-terrain capabilities with robust tires. Unlike traditional wheelchairs, scooters eliminate physical exertion for longer journeys, making them ideal for shopping trips, outdoor activities, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

Battery innovations in 2025 have transformed mobility scooter performance, with lithium and graphene-based batteries offering up to 48 hours of use between charges. Fast-charging ports and wireless charging pads further enhance convenience, reducing downtime significantly.

Walking Sticks

For individuals with mild mobility limitations, walking sticks provide lightweight support for shorter distances. Their portability makes them convenient for daily activities, though they’re best suited for supplementary assistance rather than full weight-bearing support.

Walking sticks encourage leg engagement and muscle strength while remaining discreet and easy to transport. However, they offer limited stability compared to more comprehensive mobility aids.

Rollators and Tri-Walkers

Rollators (four-wheeled walkers) deliver exceptional stability across uneven surfaces, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Built-in seats allow users to rest during longer outings, while storage baskets provide convenience for shopping and errands.

The four-wheel design offers superior balance on pavements with bumps and divots, reducing fall risk significantly. Caregivers report that rollators reduce physical strain and back pain while providing peace of mind.

Tri-walkers (three-wheeled walkers) excel in tight spaces with their compact design and exceptional maneuverability. Their lighter weight makes them easier to transport and store, particularly when folding for car travel.

Tri-walkers are ideal for predominantly indoor use and navigating crowded shops, though they sacrifice some stability compared to four-wheeled models. Many now include seats and storage pouches without compromising portability.

With an estimated 3.5 billion people projected to need assistive technology by 2050, these walking aids play an increasingly vital role in maintaining independence.

Powerchairs

Powerchairs represent the pinnacle of mobility technology, combining motorized independence with advanced comfort features. Unlike standard electric wheelchairs designed for shorter periods, powerchairs utilize powerful rechargeable batteries meant for extended daily use.

Key distinctions include extensive customization options such as swivel seats, multiple sitting and standing positions, and superior suspension systems. Enhanced padding maximizes comfort during all-day use, while advanced controls simplify navigation through various environments.

Powerchairs handle diverse terrain more effectively than electric wheelchairs, operating at faster speeds suitable for outdoor adventures and indoor navigation. Smart wheelchair technology in 2025 incorporates GPS mapping, collision avoidance sensors, health monitoring, and voice control for unprecedented autonomy.

Battery life improvements mean powerchairs can operate for extended periods, with some models offering modular battery packs for on-the-go replacement. These features eliminate dependency on others, providing genuine freedom for users with significant mobility challenges.

Choosing the Right Mobility Solution

Selecting appropriate mobility aids depends on individual physical conditions, lifestyle requirements, and daily activities. Consider factors such as indoor versus outdoor use, terrain types, distance traveled, and whether seating or storage features are necessary.

Professional assessment ensures optimal device selection, as approximately 24% of adults aged 65 and older use mobility devices, with usage increasing alongside aging populations.

Get Expert Guidance at Irish Stairlifts

Whether upgrading from a manual wheelchair or exploring mobility solutions for the first time, choosing the right equipment significantly impacts quality of life and independence. At Irish Stairlifts, we understand that every mobility challenge is unique, and we’re committed to helping you find the perfect solution.

Our comprehensive range includes mobility scooters, powerchairs, rollators, tri-walkers, and walking aids designed for Irish homes and lifestyles. We provide expert consultations to match you with equipment that suits your specific needs, whether you prioritize maneuverability, comfort, outdoor capability, or advanced technology.

Don’t let mobility challenges limit your independence. Contact Irish Stairlifts today at 01 616 70 79 or 045 892696 to discuss your mobility needs. Visit irishstairlifts.ie to explore our full product range and discover how modern mobility solutions can transform your daily life.

ISB Mobility

Mobility Services by Irish Stairlifts You Didn’t Know About

12Dec2022

When searching for a mobility provider with extensive product options and deep industry expertise, Irish Stairlifts stands out as Ireland’s trusted choice. With over twenty years of experience serving the Irish market, we’ve established ourselves as a leading authority in home accessibility solutions. Whether you’re exploring mobility options for the first time or upgrading existing equipment, this comprehensive guide reveals the full range of services we offer.

Stairlifts for Every Home

Irish Stairlifts specializes in providing premium stairlift solutions tailored to your home’s unique layout. The global stairlift market is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach USD 1.67 billion by 2032 with a compound annual growth rate of 6.6%, driven by increasing demand for home accessibility solutions. We offer:

Straight Stairlifts: Perfect for homes with straightforward staircases, straight stairlifts provide reliable, cost-effective mobility. Installation is quick and minimally invasive, typically completed within a few hours.

Curved Stairlifts: For homes with curved, spiral, or multi-landing staircases, our custom-fitted curved stairlifts are engineered to navigate any staircase configuration safely and smoothly.

Reconditioned Stairlifts: Quality mobility solutions don’t have to break the bank. Our reconditioned stairlifts undergo rigorous testing and refurbishment to meet the highest safety standards while offering substantial cost savings compared to new models. These eco-friendly options prevent equipment from ending up in landfills while providing like-new functionality at a fraction of the price.

Stairlift Rental: Need a temporary solution for injury recovery or short-term mobility assistance? Our straight stairlift rental service provides professional installation, maintenance, and flexible rental periods without long-term commitment. This cost-effective option is ideal for rehabilitation periods or while making permanent accessibility decisions.

Through Floor Lifts

For homes where traditional stairlifts aren’t practical, through floor lifts offer an elegant alternative. These compact elevators travel through a simple floor opening without requiring extensive renovations or a separate shaft. Through floor lifts are particularly beneficial for:

Wheelchair users who need to remain in their mobility device during transit

Homes with steep, narrow, or curved staircases where stairlifts may not be suitable

Properties where aesthetic concerns make traditional stairlift rails less desirable

The personal mobility devices market, which includes through floor lifts, is projected to grow from USD 14.5 billion in 2025 to USD 34.3 billion by 2035, reflecting increasing demand for comprehensive home accessibility solutions.

Mobility Scooters

Our extensive collection of mobility scooters remains one of our most popular product categories. We understand that mobility needs vary significantly, which is why we stock everything from compact travel scooters for easy transportation to heavy-duty models designed for outdoor terrain and extended range. Each scooter in our inventory is selected for its reliability, safety features, and user comfort.

Walking Aids and Traditional Mobility Solutions

Not every mobility challenge requires powered equipment. Irish Stairlifts maintains a comprehensive selection of walking aids including walking sticks, rollators, and walkers. These traditional mobility solutions offer excellent value for those seeking enhanced independence without significant financial investment. The mobility aids market is experiencing robust growth, expected to reach USD 13.2 billion by 2035, with walking aids representing a significant segment driven by lightweight, foldable, and ergonomic designs.

Wet Room Conversions

Wet room conversions have become increasingly popular in Irish homes throughout 2025, offering fully waterproof, accessible bathroom solutions that eliminate barriers and create spacious, contemporary bathing environments. Wet rooms are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility challenges, as they eliminate shower steps and provide level-access bathing. Professional installation ensures proper waterproofing, drainage, and safety features while adding long-term value to your property.

Ramps and Rails for Home Safety

We provide professionally installed ramps and rails that enhance safety and accessibility throughout your home. These essential modifications help prevent falls, provide stability, and enable independent movement in entryways, hallways, and outdoor spaces.

Mobility Accessories

Beyond our core products, Irish Stairlifts stocks a diverse range of accessories to enhance your mobility experience. From spare mobility batteries for wheelchairs and scooters to weather protection like canopy covers, we ensure you’re prepared for every situation. These practical additions extend the usability and lifespan of your mobility equipment.

Why Choose Irish Stairlifts?

Our exceptional customer testimonials reflect our unwavering commitment to quality and service excellence. Since opening in 1999, we’ve prioritized customer satisfaction by offering expert guidance, professional installation, and comprehensive aftercare support. When you invest in mobility equipment, you’re making a significant decision that affects daily independence and quality of life—we ensure that investment delivers lasting value.

Get Started with Irish Stairlifts Today

Ready to explore how Irish Stairlifts can enhance your mobility and independence? We offer multiple convenient ways to connect with our experienced team:

Call us directly at 045 892696 for immediate assistance and informal inquiries about our stairlifts, through floor lifts, reconditioned models, rental options, wet room conversions, or ramp and rail installations.

Complete our online enquiry form at irishstairlifts.ie/contact for detailed questions, quotation, or to schedule a free home assessment.

Whether you need a straight stairlift rental for temporary recovery, a permanent curved stairlift installation, a through floor lift for complete home accessibility, wet room conversion services, or ramps and rails for enhanced safety, Irish Stairlifts has the expertise and solutions to meet your needs.

Visit irishstairlifts.ie to explore our full range of mobility services and discover how we can help you maintain independence and comfort in your home.

Previous page 1 … 11 12 13 14 15 … 22 Next page