Bath Seats for the Elderly

As we age, making sure we’re safe becomes our number one concern. One of the areas where this is particularly crucial is in the bathroom, a space that poses a higher risk for slips and falls than almost any other room in the house!

Bathroom seats offer a simple yet effective solution to improve both safety and comfort when bathing. These specially designed aids provide stability and support, allowing for a far safer and more relaxing bathing experience.

Shower Stools

Shower stools are simple and effective tools that provide both stability and comfort if you have limited mobility. These stools are made of durable, water-resistant materials like plastic or aluminium, ensuring they not only withstand the water but also the humid conditions of a shower.

So, what are the benefits?

• Portability: Shower stools are lightweight and extremely easy to move.
• Adjustability: Stools allow you to find the most comfortable sitting position.
• Affordability: Shower stools are usually more wallet-friendly.

But there are also a few things to consider:

• Stability: Make sure the stool has non-slip rubber ferrules to prevent it from sliding on wet surfaces.
• Weight Capacity: Check the weight limit to ensure it supports the user’s needs.

Bath Benches

Bath benches are larger than shower stools. Bath benches, like the stools, come with an adjustable frame and large suction cups that will keep them in place.

Bath benches provide you with greater physical safety and support when you’re at your most vulnerable. They give you the chance to enjoy the ambience of a bath or shower.

Some of the benefits of bath benches are:

• Improved stability: Bath benches are more stable, have wide bases, and non-slip feet.
• Easier to use: They do exactly what it says on the tin!
• Adjustable Heights: Set the height that best suits you.

But you should also be aware of:

• Installation: Make sure your bath bench is fixed securely in place.
• Space Requirements: Bath benches are bulkier than most bathroom aids.

Wall-Mounted Seats

Wall-mounted seats are fixed directly to the wall of your shower or bath area. These are preferable if you have concerns over the stability of other bathroom aids. As they are wall-mounted, they’re also capable of withstanding more weight.

There are some things to consider with your wall-mounted seats:

• Space-efficient: Wall-mounted seats save a lot of space – especially the fold-away ones!
• Easy to clean: As there are no legs or bases to clean around, the seats are easier to maintain.
• Durable: When installed properly, they provide a sturdy and reliable seating option.

Some things to consider:

• Installation: You might need professional installation.
• Adjustability: Wall-mounted seats aren’t as adjustable as other bathroom aids. 

Bath Lifts

Bath lifts are motorised devices that help you get in and out of the bathtub safely. A bath lift will lift or lower into and out of the tub easily.

While the thought of a motorised bathroom aid might put you in mind of dangling wires and gears and cogs sticking out, the reality is far different. Everything is tucked away and waterproof. Safety is also a consideration, so you won’t go electrocuting yourself while you’re in the bath!

Some things to consider:

• Better assistance with mobility: Bath lifts are great if you struggle with standing or sitting.
• Easy to use: Most models are operated with a simple remote control.
• Comfort: Most lifts come with cushioned seats and backrests for added comfort during bath time.
• Cost: Bath lifts are more expensive than other bathroom aids.
• Space: A bath lift could require additional space in the bathroom.

Bath seats are vital for enhancing safety and comfort for the elderly during bathing. Whether it’s a shower stool, bath bench, wall-mounted seat, or bath lift, each aid offers unique benefits suited to you and your needs.

Consider your own situation. What do you need right now? Think long and hard about yours, or others’ requirements and make the best decision you can.