Handicap shower chairs can make bathing and grooming safer and more comfortable for you and your caregiver. There are several styles of chairs to choose from, including sliding benches and traditional chairs made from durable plastics and metals.
Main Style
The two main types of traditional shower chairs are regular chairs for patients up to 300 to 350 pounds and bariatric chairs for patients up to 700 pounds. The traditional shower chair is made from high quality materials that resist rust and mildew from moisture and sit in the shower like a regular chair. These chairs can be very helpful when you have limited mobility and need assistance in the shower. Some chairs have cut outs that allow for bathing, as well. These cut outs are made for those who cannot stand on their own in the shower.
Bariatric handicap shower chairs are made the same way as traditional chairs but have more support and are often made to be comfortable for patients who weight up to 700 pounds. If you need a bariatric chair make sure you read the weight limits of the shower chairs that you are interested in to ensure the safety of the patient. You may find that there are many different types of bariatric shower chairs to choose from allowing you to choose the style that fits your personal needs best.
Other Styles
If you have very limited mobility then you may need portable handicap shower chairs that can be pushed into the shower like a wheelchair. These shower chairs are made with durable plastic and mesh that covers the back of the chair. Many portable shower chairs also have a cut away portion that allows for easier cleaning. Some chairs also have an attached pail under the cut away seat for use as a commode. The seat has a ringed commode seat and the pail comes off the chair for easy cleaning.
An attached pail allows your handicap shower chairs to also be used for a commode. If you have very limited mobility then you may find this chair is very useful. You can roll the chair into a walk-in shower with the pail removed for simpler cleaning. A shower head that detaches from the wall is a good addition to your home when you need the assistance of a shower chair. You can use the shower head easily even when you have limited mobility.
Use
When using handicap shower chairs it is a good idea to have a caregiver close by. Some chairs are larger and won’t tip easily while others are much narrower and may tip when moved suddenly. Children’s handicap bathing chairs are also widely available. These chairs include styles with foot rests that are simple to use with small kids. A foot rest is also ideal when providing care for patients with no lower body mobility.
As long as you are comfortable with safety you can easily use handicap shower chairs to assist you in caring for those with limited mobility or for yourself to increase independence and safety in the bath.
