Toilet Troubles

At long last, we have proof that the squatty-potty can be traumatic, even for veteran users.

Answering the call of nature is easy for most of us, but for the elderly in Central and Western District using public toilets can be so frightening they dare not leave home.

Lee Sun is one of many elderly residents who shared his terrible public toilet experience ...

The 95-year-old fell when he had just finished using a squat toilet in Gutzlaff Street, Central ... "I had to crouch when using the squat toilet. My legs felt very weak and painful after sitting on my heels for a while. When I tried to get up, I slipped and my back landed on the dirty floor.

"I now avoid going out, as I do not want to use public toilets again. I felt terrified. I kept knocking the door, but no one helped me till after half an hour ..."

Now that's true anguish, considering the general nastiness of most Hong Kong public washrooms.

Shek Kui, 84, who also spoke about her toilet terror, said she had to press her hands on a filthy floor to be able to get up after using a squat toilet.

"I felt very dizzy after using a squat toilet, as I had to sit on my heels. I tried to use my hands for support in order to get up. But then after I managed to stand up, I couldn't put on my pants, as my hands were too dirty ..."

Yuck. No matter how often she washes her hands, she's going to be reluctant to eat without wearing surgical gloves for quite a while.

"Every public toilet should have toilet seats and handrails so that the elderly can sit down when they pop to the loo ..."

Let's not forget toilet paper ...

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