Bathroom Accessibility Program Returns

CITY OF SEAL BEACH

Leisure World residents who have trouble stepping into the shower for any reason are likely eligible for a free bathroom upgrade. For nearly two decades, the City of Seal Beach has run the Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program to help residents of Leisure World modify their bathrooms; making them easier for seniors to use as intended.

The units in Leisure World were built in the 1960s, before ADA regulations were established. As a result, the fiberglass tub/shower combinations can be a challenge for seniors to use. The funding from the County of Orange and HUD is used to modify these fiberglass units to make them more accessible to the residents for free.

How is it done? The side wall of the existing fiberglass tubs are cut to just a few inches from the floor. The tubs are then refinished with a new coat of fiberglass to look like new, and a custom glass shower door is installed. The process converts the tub/shower combination into a functioning shower. This eliminates the need for seniors to lift one leg up and over the tub wall; which is particularly dangerous when standing barefoot on a wet surface.

The Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program is an innovative City Program designed to provide the residents with a more convenient and safe method to access the bathroom shower. The grant funds can also be used to build an in-shower bench, add grab bars and/or replace an existing toilet with a high-boy toilet; further assisting seniors.

To qualify, resident households must meet certain income guidelines. Savings do not disqualify you. All applicants must be over 55 years of age and have a gross annual household income less than or equal to the Orange County levels listed below: One person household: $75,900 Two person household: $86,750 Three person household: $97,600 In addition to the income requirements, a licensed medical doctor must complete the Doctor’s Analysis Form (included in the application) that rates the physical condition of the applicant with respect to mobility problems, pain with movement, or trouble with balance. This rating allows the program to help the applicants who are in the most need first until all the funds are spent.

The bathroom improvement process is coordinated by Civic-Stone ( www.civicstone.com): a company hired by the City of Seal Beach to review all applications and manage the construction improvements with the approved contractors. Once approved for the program and scheduled for work, the improvements usually take less than a week to complete.

“Many residents get confused on the application process,” said Monique Miner, program administrator. “They don’t realize you can have substantial savings and still qualify for the free upgrade. We are just a phone call away and can help residents apply for the completely free upgrade. But don’t delay completing your application, because funds are limited!”

Applications are currently being accepted and are available online at https://www.civicstone.com and from the City of Seal Beach’s website.

For more information email monique@civicstone.com or call 909-364-9000.