Devices To Help Get Out Of The Tub
Filed under Handicap Bathroom, Lifts
Bathroom floors and tub surfaces can be slippery, making getting out of the tub challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
If a fall should occur, all of the hard surfaces and sharp corners in a bathroom make serious injury a distinct possibility. Installing and using devices to help get out of the tub can reduce the risks and make the bathtub easier to use and enjoy.
Bath Assistance Devices
Different Types
The most common type of device to help people get out of the tub is a bathtub rail. Bathtub rails come in various styles. The most basic is a straight metal bar that attaches to the shower wall or to the side of the bathtub. These can be installed vertically or horizontally. Some people also like using angled bathtub rails, bathtub chairs, bathtub benches or shower poles. Some of these rails have a textured surface to help make gripping easier and others are colored to make it easier for people with impaired eyesight to spot them. For people with severe mobility problems, bathtub lifts are another option. Bathtub lifts work by slowly lifting the seated person into and out of the tub.
Benefits
For many people, devices that help improve bathroom maneuverability are necessary to continue using the bathtub without assistance. Without these devices, independent living becomes an impossibility. Being able to continue taking baths without assistance helps elderly or handicapped individuals maintain a sense of independence that can stave off depression and anxiety. Asking for assistance during a bath can be embarrassing for some, so using devices that help maintain independence in the bathroom can make a person more self confident.
Using These Devices
Individuals who are handicapped find bath rails and other devices to help get out of the tub extremely helpful. Elderly people, including those who have physical mobility issues or neurodegenerative problems such as dementia, may also find these devices useful. To properly use these items, they must be positioned in the areas that will allow for easy access and safety. Along the walls of the bathtub, on the bathtub curb and heights that meet ADA requirements are a good start.
Maintenance of bathroom mobility devices is typically simple. Most of these devices should be inspected visually for wear and tear on a regular basis. Bath rails should be inspected for loosening and strength. Give the rail a tug and check for any rust. Devices with mechanical parts should not be used if they start to operate in a poor or unusual way such as loud squeaking or rattling that is not in accordance with normal operations. If problems do occur, a professional installer can help fix the device.
Tags: Bath Lifts, Bathtub Grab Rails, Bathtub Safety Bars and Handrails
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