Toilet Seat Lifts
Filed under Handicap Bathroom, Lifts
For the elderly or disabled, it can be difficult to stand up from a toilet seat, even with the typical handicap seats meeting ADA requirements. Increasing independence is an important part of increasing the quality of life and using the proper seat lift will help with both. Rather than rushing to invite yet another caregiver into the home of your loved one, explore the other options available to make using the restroom both safer and more comfortable. Even if there is a caregiver present in the home already, having the right toilet seat lift will make their job easier and safer. Consider the benefits carefully before choosing the best toilet seat accessory on the market.
Benefits of Toilet Seat Lifts
The basic benefits of toilet seat lifts are allowing you to not have to sit down too low or strain to stand up. Your choice of a powered model or standard lift will depend on the level of help needed to ensure bathroom safety. Both models may be purchased with the variety of features considered here, so it is important to check the specifications for a model before making the purchase.
Safety
All seat lifts come with weight limits, though most are graded for between 250-500 pounds. Powered seat lifts remove all the effort from standing because the machine does all the work. If you strain a lot or unable to get up with just your legs, the power toilet seat lift might be the right choice. For those able to stand with assistance, an unpowered seat lift may be a better and cheaper option. Models may come with grab bars to help in maneuvering to and from the walker or wheel chair.
Portability
Both powered lifts and the standard toilet seat risers may be found in portable and even stand-alone units. Raised seats offer a distinct benefit when it comes to visiting friends and family. Though versatile, these units may not offer the sturdiness of an installed lift. However, installation is typically easy and will not require any special tools, but this is only a general rule. It is important to check the specifications and read customer reviews before choosing. Raised toilet seats like the ones seen on the left add 3 to 4 inches to the height of the toilet.
Independence
Privacy is a key component of human dignity and quality of life with studies showing that an increased quality of life can add years of enjoyment. The primary concern in purchasing a seat lift should be finding a model that maximizes independence for the person. Being able to stand up from a toilet seat is made easier with the right choice of equipment.
Tags: Toilet Commodes
Bath Lifts For Easy Access Bathing
Filed under Handicap Bathroom, Lifts
A bath lift is a specially designed seat which fits in a bath tub and lowers a person in and out of the water. Bath lifts are helpful devices for the elderly or for anyone who has limited mobility. Many times caregivers of elderly and disabled people find that lifting them in and out of the bathtub not only puts a strain on the back, but can also be very unsafe. Handicap bathtub lifts have been used in hospitals and nursing homes for some time but are becoming more and common in the private residence.
Most bath lifts look like a simple chair, and are easily installed with large suction cups for safety. Some bath lifts have reclining seats and padded cushions for added comfort and many have rotating seats for easier access. Most are operated by a handheld device with a battery and some work by water pressure. The more deluxe ones have a safety feature that will not let you lower the lift unless there is enough power to bring it back up. Bath lifts generally have the capacity to hold between 200 and 300 lbs.
Bath Lift Alternatives
Another type of bath lift is the inflatable type, which is a comfortable alternative. Inflatable bathing cushion lifts are a bit different in that they look like an air mattress and are actually powered by air pressure. They are light and easy to transport when traveling.
In addition to adult or elderly tub lifts there are also bath lifts designed for disabled children. These come in both standard type and inflatable. One particular inflatable lift type has four different levels that can be adjusted from flat to a 70 degree angle. It holds a child up to 110 lbs and includes rails, leg straps and a pommel to keep the child from sliding.
Bath lifts can range in price from around $500 to $2000 depending on quality, comfort and ease of use. They are easy to install, can be stored right in the tub and require very little maintenance. Whether you are a handicapped or elderly person who desires to regain your independence, or a caregiver who needs a little extra help, a bath lift can be the answer.
