Toilets with Wash and Dry Functions: Welfare Technology That Enhances Quality of Life
In 2016, The Danish National Centre for Social Research conducted a comprehensive study on welfare technology implemented in nursing homes in Aarhus Municipality. The goal was to examine how different technologies impacted residents’ quality of life, staff working conditions, and municipal finances. Among the technologies installed were toilets with integrated washing, drying, height-adjustment, and tilt functions – comparable to the Bano Turnable Toilet with wash and dry features.
Although nearly a decade has passed since the study was conducted. Its findings remain highly relevant. The results underscore the long-term value of investing in welfare technology that promotes independence, dignity, and smarter resource use in the public sector. Values that lie at the heart of what we do at Bano.
A Meaningful Look Into Residents’ Everyday Experience
Roughly half of the residents participated in the study. Those selected were cognitively sound and able to provide direct feedback. While the most vulnerable residents were not included, the dataset – with 117 responses. This still offers a solid and representative picture of how welfare technologies function in real life.
To ensure a broad and reliable insight base, the research team conducted both surveys and interviews.
Residents were asked how they used different types of welfare technology in their daily routines, and what kind of impact these tools had on their quality of life. They were also encouraged to indicate whether each technology had made things better, worse, or had no significant effect.
Toilets That Support Dignity and Independence
Several types of welfare technology were installed across the nursing homes, including:
- Automatic doors
- Smart lighting
- Motorized curtains and sunshades
- Robotic vacuum cleaners
- Toilet with height regulation, tilt, built-in wash and dry
In this article, we focus specifically on the toilets – and the difference they make for both residents and care staff. These findings are particularly relevant to us, as we have developed the Bano Turnable Toilet, with similar features.
Here you can also see how future-ready bathroom solutions work in practice at Heradsbygda Nursing Home in Ringerike Municipality.
According to the report, toilets with automated functions were among the most used and appreciated technologies. A full 61% of residents said these toilets made them feel cleaner and more comfortable. Additionally, the study showed that washing and drying functions contributed to a reduction in urinary tract infections, as users were better able to fully empty their bladders. Something that was previously difficult for some.
The ability to manage toileting independently is essential to both dignity and autonomy. When the toilet can adjust height, wash, and dry, the need for physical assistance drops significantly. Enabling many residents to manage on their own and maintain privacy in one of life’s most personal routines.
Tangible Benefits for Care Staff
The study also included 141 care workers, who shared their perspectives on how welfare technologies impacted their work. The results show that toilets with automated functions have considerable potential to ease the physical burden, improve ergonomics, and reduce sick leave among staff.
Curious how the Bano Turnable Toilet helps reduce the number of physical transfers and improves daily routines for both residents and staff?
Read our interview with transfer specialist Per Halvor Lunde here.
For example, a toilet with height regulation functionality can help a resident stand up after use. Reducing or eliminating the need for lifting assistance. This not only frees up time and staff capacity, but also prevents the strain of repetitive, heavy manual handling.
Financial Impact and Long-Term Sustainability
While toilets with advanced features may require a higher initial investment, the study shows that the long-term economic benefits are substantial.
Key drivers include:
- A higher degree of resident independence
- Shorter and fewer care tasks related to toileting
- Fewer injuries and lower sick leave among staff
To unlock this full potential, the technology must be integrated into daily routines, properly maintained, and included in training programs for both staff and residents.
Supporting Dignity Through Innovation
The findings clearly show how welfare technology – especially toilets with wash, dry, and lift functions – can greatly improve the user experience and quality of life. By enabling residents to perform essential tasks on their own. These solutions restore a sense of control and personal dignity.
The bathroom is one of the most private spaces we have. Maintaining independence here is about more than hygiene – it’s about self-respect, especially for individuals living with reduced mobility.
The Road Ahead
The insights from Aarhus provide a compelling case for how we shape the future of elderly care. While solutions like the Bano Turnable Toilet may come with a higher up-front cost, they address some of the most time- and resource-intensive tasks in care work. As such, the return on investment – both in terms of human value and financial savings – is significant.
At Banoconcept, we’re committed to developing smart, practical solutions that meet the care challenges of tomorrow – and improve everyday life, one day at a time.
Learn more about how we developed the Bano Turnable Bed and our approach to innovation here.