Bathroom safety is crucial, especially for those with mobility issues. Commode chair showers help make bathrooms safer and more independent for the elderly and disabled. They offer a stable and comfy way to bathe, reducing the chance of falls. Through this guide, you’ll learn all about the safety, advantages, and upkeep of commode chair showers.
Key Takeaways
- Commode chair showers enhance bathroom safety for individuals with mobility challenges.
- These chairs provide a secure and comfortable bathing experience.
- Maintaining personal dignity and reducing accident risks are key benefits.
- A range of models and prices are available, suitable for various needs.
- Learning proper use and maintenance ensures longevity and safety.
What Is a Commode Chair Shower?
A commode chair shower is like a portable chair on wheels made for the shower. It has a special seat that looks like a toilet seat. When you know what a commode chair definition is, you realize it’s great for both showering and use as a toilet. This makes taking care of yourself safer and easier.
When you look into the types of shower commode chairs, you find many designs for everyone’s needs. The regular ones can hold people up to 300 lbs. But, the bigger models like the Broda B385 Revive can handle between 600 and 800 lbs. There are even small chairs for kids, like the Rebotec Augsburg, which are made for up to 176 lbs.
There are different versions of these chairs, like static ones and those that tilt. The Aquatec Ocean VIP Tilt-in-Space Chair, for example, can tilt up to 35 degrees. It also supports users up to 330 lbs. Being able to adjust the chair like this helps people stay comfortable and safe. A study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found these chairs help lower the risk of falling.
Some chairs have special features like being able to change height or having wheels to move easily. The MJM International Wide Shower Chair can support up to 425 lbs. It’s also wider for more comfort. In smaller bathrooms, chairs like the Freedom Aqua Patient Transfer Lift are perfect. They’re slim enough to fit through doorways as narrow as 22.5 inches.
Knowing how a shower wheelchair is used in different places, like homes or hospitals, shows its many uses. According to the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, making changes for each person and their setting is key. This helps people be more independent and lowers the chance of getting hurt.
Benefits of Using a Commode Chair Shower
Using a commode chair shower can greatly improve bathroom safety and help caregivers. These chairs are crucial for people who have trouble moving around. They help prevent falls, which are common in bathrooms. This is important because falls can happen a lot at home, especially in the bathroom.
Commode chairs have features like adjustable heights. This makes them safer and easier on the legs. They are designed to make the bathroom a safer place. Their strong frames and non-slip features also make them more reliable.
These chairs also make things easier for caregivers. They help in moving users, cutting down on the effort caregivers have to put in. This lets the caregivers focus on other important things. Some commode chairs let users move by themselves, which gives them more privacy and independence.
Commode chairs are useful for more than one thing. They can be used in the shower and over the toilet. They can even be placed in bedrooms, which is great for people getting better from injuries. This keeps users comfortable and safe from further harm.
Choosing the Right Commode Chair Shower
When you’re choosing a shower commode chair, think about a few key things. The person’s ability to move, their weight, and height matter. Also, how their bathroom is set up plays a big role. Look for chair features like wheel locks and backrests to keep them safe and comfy.
Bathrooms can be risky for older adults, causing falls. It’s important to pick commode chairs that make bathrooms safer. Here are some handy tips:
- Weight Capacity: Most standard shower chairs can hold between 250 to 400 pounds. Heavy-duty chairs can support up to 900 pounds, perfect for those needing extra support.
- Height Adjustability: Shower chairs should be about 17 to 19 inches tall, as the ADA suggests. Adjustable chairs work great for people of different heights.
- Material: Choose chairs made of materials that won’t rust or break down with water. Metal is stronger and lasts longer than plastic.
- Drainage and Safety Features: Look for chairs with holes to let water out, which is better for the skin. Also, features like backrests and armrests help everyone.
- Special Features: Soft seats are kinder on the skin and can prevent sore spots. Chairs that tilt or have moving seats are also good for keeping caregivers and users happy.
Brands like ShowerBuddy have lots of top-notch choices. For instance, the SB6C-22 and SB6C-26 models hold up to 440 lbs. The SB2T TubBuddy tilts to make sitting more comfortable. The SB3T Roll-In Shower Chair moves easily, and the SB7E Eco Traveler is great for roll-in showers with its light frame.
Keep these tips in mind to choose a shower commode chair that’s right. It should fit the user well and make the bathroom a safer place.
How to Use a Commode Chair Shower Safely
Using a shower commode chair safely is very important. It involves careful steps when moving patients and making sure they are stable. Following these safety tips can help stop accidents in the shower.
When moving to or from the shower commode, help may be needed. Depending on how well the patient can move, one or two helpers might be needed. It’s important to always use the brakes during these times to keep the chair from moving. A stable chair is key to preventing accidents in the shower.
Check the chair before putting a patient in it. Make sure it works right because broken equipment is dangerous. Also, check the water temperature before starting a bath to keep things using a shower commode chair safely.
Secure the patient in the chair to stop any slip-ups. Adjust the armrests and footrests to make sure they’re stable. Remember, some shower commodes have special features that you need to use correctly.
- Always apply brakes on the shower commode chair during transfers.
- Engage locking mechanisms designed to keep the patient safely in place.
- Maintain proper body mechanics to avoid injuries when moving the equipment.
- Regularly clean and inspect the chair to ensure it remains in good condition.
Also, you should never leave a patient alone in the commode chair. Following these detailed safety tips can really lower the chance of accidents. It helps keep the bath time safe for those who need help moving.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Commode Chair Showers
Keeping your commode chair shower in top shape is important for cleanliness and lasting use. It’s key to clean commode chairs often. This avoids the growth of soap scum, mildew, and germs, cutting down health risks.
It’s best to clean shower seats once a week or even daily. Use mild soap and water for solid plastic chairs. For teak wood seats, clean with mild soap or special teak cleaner. Warm water and mild dish soap are best for phenolic seats.
For padded seats, use a mix of mild soap and water or white vinegar and water. Make sure to dry seats well after washing to prevent mold and mildew.
Regularly check for any damage like cracks, chips, or big changes in color. This makes sure the chair is safe and works well. For tough stains on plastic, use a baking soda mix. A small brush can reach tight spots.
To disinfect, mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with a gallon of water. A mix of white vinegar and water also works against soap scum. Clean thoroughly every week or two to keep your chair looking good.
Read this detailed guide on cleaning for more tips on upkeep.
By following these steps, your commode chair will stay a clean, safe help for bathing, supporting your well-being and comfort.
Common Misconceptions About Commode Chair Showers
Commode chairs are misunderstood, but learning about them can clear up these myths. It’s often thought that they’re only for hospitals. Yet, they’re made for safe, comfy use in any bathroom, home or healthcare places alike.
Many believe these chairs aren’t safe or comfortable. But, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the bathroom is the riskiest room. It leads to about 235,000 ER visits each year for people 15 and older due to accidents. This makes the use of shower commode chairs critical to prevent dangerous falls and slips.
Some say commode chairs are just for the old or those who can’t move well. This misses the point that anyone can slip in a bathroom, showing how these chairs help everyone. By understanding these chairs and adding safety items like grab bars, we can make bathrooms safer for all.
Cleaning and hygiene concerns also cause misunderstandings about these chairs. Sure, shower curtains may be toxic and bathrooms get moldy. But commode chairs are built with bacteria-resistant materials that are simple to clean. This helps keep bathrooms cleaner.
Finally, when busting myths about these chairs, it’s key to note how safety additions work. Non-slip floor treatments and strong grab bars lower accident risks. Pairing these with a commode chair boosts support and safety, giving extra confidence on wet floors.
Where to Purchase Commode Chair Showers
Looking to buy a commode chair shower? There are many places to check out. Knowing where to search and what to look for will help you pick the best one for you.
Start by visiting medical supply stores close to you. They carry many models, like those with reclining features or heavy-duty support. Brands like MJM International and Duralife have prices between $280.00 and $1,895.00. Remember, special features like the tilt-in-space can raise the price.
Shopping at online retailers of shower chairs is another good option. They let you see lots of choices and compare prices easily. Most of these sites ship for free in the Continental USA. They also offer a 30-day return policy. But watch out for restocking fees of 15-20%. Make sure you understand the return policy, as some items can’t be returned for hygiene reasons.
Buying straight from commode chair suppliers like MJM International is worth considering too. Check if they offer discounts or ways to customize your chair. Getting a detailed invoice can help if you’re trying to get reimbursed by Medicare. But remember, the company won’t bill insurance directly. Having the right papers can help with personal claims.
Don’t forget to think about extra costs like shipping or additional features. Some stores will match prices, so check other places’ total prices before you buy. For heavy-duty chairs, like the MJM PVC Bariatric Shower Commode Chair costing $810.00, ensure it fits your needs. Some models can hold up to 700 lbs.
Lastly, choose sellers known for great customer service and warranties. This is important for getting help after your purchase, especially with high-end chairs like the DuraTilt Tilt-in-Space PVC Shower Chair at $1,895.00.
Keep these pointers in mind to confidently find the ideal commode chair shower for your specific needs and likes.
Final Thoughts on Commode Chair Showers
Choosing the right commode chair shower can make a big difference. It improves bathroom safety and life quality for seniors and people with mobility issues. These chairs offer more freedom and lower the chance of falling. This makes going to the bathroom and showering easier and less stressful. Think about adjustability, how much weight it can hold, and extra comforts like padding and being easy to move.
The UltraCommode Shower Commode Chair by Platinum Health is a great example. It has comfy padding and you can change its height from 19 to 23.5 inches. It is made of strong, light aluminum and can hold users up to 300 pounds. You can also fold it up for easy storage or travel, making it very handy.
Commode chair showers are very important for improving bathroom safety and hygiene. They come in many styles, from simple stools to advanced electric chairs. This lets caregivers and users pick the best one for their needs. Buying one of these chairs helps prevent falls and ensures cleanliness. It also gives users more dignity and independence. By looking into these chairs, you’re creating a safer, more comfy home.
