Shower Benches – For People with Limited Mobility

Shower benches are largely made in order that people with limited mobility are allowed the freedom to wash unassisted. The only assistance they would need is getting in and out of the shower/tub. It minimizes accidents from slipping in the bath, as the bather would be comfortably sat on the bench while he or she enjoys a warm shower.

People with limited mobility would include the elderly and the disabled or handicapped.

Safety is always the top priority when you take care of the elderly or the disabled. Therefore it is essential that you practice precautionary measures in the bathroom for their comfort and safety.

Grab bars, non-slip bath mats, and a shower bench would complete the ensemble. When you are assisting someone of limited mobility into the shower, make sure you are prepared to stay in the bathroom with the patient until they finish the bath or shower. Some will need assistance for balance maintenance, therefore being at hand at all times is essential.

Styles

There are various styles of shower benches available in the market.

Sliding or tub transfer benches are typically used for people who have limited or no mobility with their legs. Half of the bench is placed inside the tub, while the other half is outside the edge of the tub. The bather sits on the side that’s outside the tub, and then slides over into the tub. If there is no mobility at all, the caregiver then pushes the bather towards the inside of the tub.

Shown here is the Heavy-Duty Sliding Transfer Bench by Duro-Med with a Cut-Out Seat. It features a blow-molded plastic seat and back with non-slip surface, a lightweight, durable aluminum frame; adjustable legs with slip-resistant tips and suction cup, and a weight capacity up to bariatric 400-lbs. Priced at $136 at Amazon.com.

A regular bath bench are for those that cannot stand for long periods of time. This bench is designed to be placed inside the shower or bathtub, with non-slip rubber feet, and most importantly, waterproof. The bather sits securely and comfortably while having a bath or shower without fear of fatigue or slipping.

The Bariatric Bath Benches by Medline available at Sears.com at the price of $23. Features: blow-molded seat with handles; for extra stability a dual cross brace; to prevent rusting, a high-strength aluminum frame. Can support weight capacity of up to 550 lb.

Swivel bath benches work on a pivot that moves at a 90- to 360-degree angle for careful but quick slipping in and out of the shower or bathtub. Ensure that the legs and feet of the swivel bath bench are secured and level to avoid any mishaps.

As shown here, the Swivel Shower Stool sells at $25 at Organize It. This shower stool rotates 360 degrees. Compact size supports up to 300 pounds and is perfect for smaller spaces. It has a bottom shelf that allows you to store shower items within easy reach. Features a non slip grip feet that ensures your safety. Measurements: 16.5″ Diameter X 17″ to 19″ H.

Another type is the folding shower bench that is collapsible for easy storage or transport. Having a folding bench is ideal as it can be used when needed, and stored when not in use, thereby, a space saver. The Folding Shower Seat by Colonial Medical, that features for safety and comfort, a blow molded plastic seat with built-in handles; an aluminum frame and for added stability angled front and rear legs; measures 20”W x 12”D with seat height of 16”; Has a weight capacity of up to 300 lbs. Selling at $32.

The choice of which type of shower bench is largely dependent on personal needs. The important benefit of a shower bench is the safety and comfort that it provides while bathing.

Click here for more information about shower benches.

Where to buy

Google Shopping provides good information on a variety of choices from those made of teak to heavy plastic available through different sellers at prices ranging from $23 to $777.