Joy / Adaptations

Joy, 79, is a resident at one of East Thames older people’s scheme in Walthamstow.

Having been through two hip replacements which have caused curvature of the spine, Joy was finding it really difficult to get in and out of the bath for her showers.

After contacting the occupational therapist at the local council, Joy’s home was assessed and East Thames’ equipment and adaptations manager, Sharon Aldrich arranged for a level access shower to be fitted.

Joy said: “The fact I can now wash my hair without agonising back pain has made such a difference to me. It’s made all the difference in the world, but particularly because Sharon was so easy to talk, always very clear and very helpful.”

For thirteen years Joy worked at the scheme as a warden, she then moved in as a resident in 2007. Joy says this helped when it came to organising the shower because she knew what she needed to do. “I was so used to batting for my tenants so this was the point when I had to start batting for myself. All you need is the courage to make that first call to the occupational therapist. After that everything fell into place, just like a jigsaw.”

Joy said having the level access shower has made it possible for her to continue living independently.