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Best bath chairs for elderly loved ones help keep them safe.
Choosing the best bath chairs for elderly loved ones helps ensure their safety. Not only will these bathtub chairs for elderly people help with bath time, but they also offer a secure place to help with dressing.
While our homes are the safest place on the planet and we love spending time in our homes more than any other place. Unfortunately, home can be a dangerous place for some, especially for elderly or disable persons who are struggling to do basic tasks such as bathing. There is a serious risk of falling in the bathroom, and to avoid those risks, you will find many handy tools like bathtub chairs for elderly men and women.
Slipping or falling in the bathroom is much more than just a simple fall. This is because space is limited in most bathrooms, and when a person falls, there is a chance that they can strike with any other things. And this can result in concussions, broken bones, and even worse.
As per the CDC, around 232,000 Americans suffer from severe injuries in the restroom every year. As per experts, this number significantly increases after the age of 75, when nearly all seniors are struggling with mobility.
Having said, we have compiled this comprehensive guide that will aid you in buying the best bathtub chairs for the elderly. By doing so, you can provide a safe and secure platform to the seniors who are struggling to live like others.
Who can use Shower Chairs?
Apart from seniors, these shower chairs are also helpful for:
Users suffering from dizziness, mobility issues, or muscle weakness – All these conditions can increase the fall risks on wet surfaces, and that can be lethal. Similarly, wet surfaces are also dangerous for those people who struggle to get-up by themself. If that’s the case with you, these shower chairs can really help you out.
Users recovering from injuries or surgery – you cannot put too much pressure on your joints or bones if recovering from an injury or have recently undergone surgery. A shower chair helps release the pressure from the legs, lower back, and knees, which helps in quick recovery.
Chronic pain sufferers – Some seniors with mobility issues cannot bath properly and find it extremely difficult to wash their back, shoulders, or legs. This is painful and further increases the risks of falling, especially for those who have chronic pain issues. With a bathing chair designed for the elderly, you can sit and bath without twisting or bending.
Types of Bath Chairs For The Elderly
These chairs have different sizes and types for various needs. Below are some common types of shower chairs for seniors:
Shower Stool
It features a free-standing design and allows users to bath comfortably. The shower stool also provides support while they wash or sit. Usually, these have adjustable heights, and the base has rubber padding or ferrules for enhanced stability and keeps it balanced on the slippery surfaces.
Usually, the stool’s seat features ABS plastic material with an aluminum frame, but there are many varieties on the market that have other materials such as wood, metal, etc. Shower stools are easy to carry and move, and storage is also simple.
Shower Chair
A shower chair is different from the stool. It does not have a free-standing design like a shower stool. The bath chair features armrests, handles, and backrest, but these features differ from brand to brand. The shower chair perfect for those who need extra support to stand up while bathing as it comes with handles or armrests. The bath chair for the elders is more comfortable due to the backrest that helps while bathing.
Most bath chairs have adjustable height, and some have drain holes in the seat. Some shower chairs for the elderly have cushioned backrest, armrests as well as seat. These are more comfortable than the regular bath chairs. And padded bath chairs are suitable for seniors suffering from pressure sores.
Wall-Mounted Shower Seat
As the name indicates, it is attached to the wall. You can easily fold wall-mounted shower chairs for easy storage.
Some wall-mounted bath chairs have adjustable legs connected to the seat, whereas some chairs rely on the wall bracket that keeps it in place and holds the user’s weight. You will also find backrest and armrests in some models. These are a perfect choice if you have a small bathroom.
Shower Chair with Wheels
These shower chairs have wheels and look similar to wheelchairs. These chairs allow seniors to wheeled into the bathroom and take a shower without standing for too long. Usually, the wheels have a reliable locking mechanism and brake system. Once you are about to take a shower while sitting on it, lock the wheels, and it will stay in the position.
The wheel bath chair for the elderly also features padded armrests and backrest to keep you comfortable. Some models also have a footrest and commode. Apart from the elderly, these bath chairs are also suitable for those who cannot stand by themselves and for those who are recovering from recent surgery.
Transfer Bench
A transfer bench includes a long seat that you can extend beyond the bathtub. It allows the elderly to be seated while they move in and out of the shower.
Using it is also simple; the person needs to sit on the seat’s end and slide across by swinging their legs, and without standing, they can bath easily. Most shower benches have sliding seats that are smooth, and the elderly can slide with minimal effort.
Ultimate Buying Guide for the Best bathtub chairs for elderly loved ones
Pay attention to the following factors when shopping for a bath chair for the elderly.
Size
The first and foremost factor is the shower chair’s size. Ensure that the chair’s size is according to the size of your bathroom or bathtub. So, when buying, verify the size of both.
Weight
The shower seat’s weight is vital, and we will advise you to opt for the light-weight shower chair for the elderly. It should be light enough for seniors to move easily. Heavy chairs are difficult to move and to carry as well.
Material
The shower chair’s material shows its build quality. It is recommended to go for the one that is rust and corrosion-proof because you will use it in the water. The material is also important because no one likes to replace the chair after a few weeks. Read reviews and buy from a trusted brand.
Portability
Portability matters if you often travel. The chair should be light enough to carry while you are traveling, and its dimensions should be compact so that you can store it easily.
Adjustability
If you can buy a shower chair with adjustable height features, this will be handy. This is because you can adjust the height as per your exact needs. Not all people have the same height; neither is it necessary that the same height suits others. So, adjustable height features also come in handy when multiple seniors are using the same chair.
Weight Holding Capacity
Before buying a shower stool for the elderly, you must check the actual weight capacity of the chair. Ensure that its build-quality is durable and the chair’s weight capacity is as per your body weight.
Stability
Here we will advise you to look at the legs of the chair. Ensure that it is stable and slip-resistant. If possible, ask the elderly to sit on it for a while. This comes in handy after all; you don’t want seniors to wobble under a shower.
Easy to maintain
Always look for a shower chair that is simple to use with less maintenance. Also, inquire about the assembling of the chair before paying for it. And buy the one that is user-friendly and needs little maintenance.
How to use one of the bathtub chairs for elderly men and women
Before using your new shower chair, set its height as per your preferences. Further, ensure that all legs are at the same level, or else it will be unstable, and you can fall. Follow these steps to use your shower chair.
Always place the chair on the flat surface and ensure that it is stable before sitting on it.
If your bathtub chair has suction cups, make sure they are properly attached to the floor.
When sitting on a bathtub chair, put equal pressure on the handles or hand rests. This will prevent the chair from slipping or tipping over, then gently sit on it and never rush.
Before sitting on the chair, ensure that all essentials like shampoo, soap, or a sponge are near you, and you can use them easily without standing from the seat.
If you use a mat, ensure that it is a non-slip mat. It will prevent any falls when moving in and out of the chair.
After taking a bath, gently get up by putting equal pressure on both hands.
Product Reviews: the best bathtub chairs for elderly people
So, it’s time to review some of the best bath chairs for the elderly on the market that you can buy for your loved ones and assist them in living an easier life.
All the shower chairs reviewed below are included after hours of research work and after analyzing reviews from verified buyers. Let’s begin:
Platinum Health Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat with Padded Back and Arms
If you have an over the bath and have issues getting in and out of the shower, then this Carousel Sliding bench with Swivel seat is the best choice for you. This bench features a sliding mechanism that makes it effortless to in or out of the shower.
This transfer bench comes with a swivel seat that keeps you stable and allows you to move easily without much twisting or bending. This swivel seat is nicely designed and also helps to release the pressure from your limbs. The shower bench for the elderly also features a cushioned seat that is super comfortable. That makes it the best shower bench for the seniors who have pressure sores. Furthermore, you can also easily open the chair’s armrests. The opening is wide, and you won’t have any problem standing or getting down on the chair. The chair’s armrests are also cushioned and feature durable, non-slip material. This allows you to hold them with damp hands.
Besides, it features an adjustable height between 19″ to 23.5″. And in our opinion, it will be sufficient for most bathtubs. The weight capacity is also higher, up to 330lbs.
For your safety, it comes with a durable and adjustable strap that you can use while moving to and from the bathtub. The straps also prevent jolting forwards and eliminate the risk of slipping or falls. Its rubber feet make it stable, and the chair will not move when you are using it.
Lastly, the shower bench is simple and available in multiple colors. Overall the bench is well-designed and aids the seniors to bath without any risk of falling or slipping.
Pros
- It comes with a 360° Swiveling Seat for optimum safety and comfort.
- It comes with pivoting armrests.
- Provides smooth and effortless sliding.
- It comes with a padded and removable backrest.
- The body is simple to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Assembling is a bit complicated.
- Pricey than others.
- The strap looks thin.
Drive Medical Bariatric Shower Chair (Best Bariatric Shower Chair)
At this spot, we present the shower chair by Drive Medical. This bariatric shower chair for the elderly features an impressive weight-bearing limit of up to 500lbs. Hence this Drive Medical bathtub chair is perfect for overweight people.
Moreover, the chair has a wide seat that gives you additional support and reliable stability. The shower chair comes with easy-to-grip handles on both sides and provides extra leverage when you want to stand from the chair. The large and comfortable seat also includes drainage holes that allow water to flow quickly.
Besides, you can easily adjust its height as per your needs between 14 inches to 19 inches. Overall, the chair is light-weight and well-built. It features a robust aluminum frame that is durable yet light-weight. To prevent it from rust and corrosion, makers have used rust-proof material in manufacturing. Its cross-brace design looks elegant and keeps you stable when you are using it in the bath.
The chair has molding on the back, and the seat is contoured to deliver extra comfort. The chair has two variants, with a backrest and without a backrest. For optimum comfort and safety, we will advise you to get the one that features a backrest. Moreover, the chair features blow molding on both the backrest and seat for additional comfort and allows you to bath without feeling any fatigue.
All things considered, it is a well-designed bathtub chair for seniors with an impressive weight limit, and we are sure it will make your shower time much more comfortable.
Pros
- The aluminum frame is light-weight but highly durable.
- The chair is made from high-quality and molded plastic.
- Height is adjustable.
- Non-skid bottom.
- High weight capacity of up to 500 pounds.
Cons
- Assembling is a bit complicated and no instructions included in the box.
NOVA Shower Chair
If you want reliable support while bathing or you are looking for a shower seat for seniors who have mobility issues, this NOVA Shower Chair deserves your serious consideration.
This Nova bathtub chair has soft armrests and backrests for reliable support and keeps you comfortable while bathing on that slippery surface. The chair keeps you stable and allows you to rinse off comfortably without worrying about falls or accidental slips. Similarly, the armrests are well-placed on the chair and offer sturdy support when you stand from the seat.
Furthermore, the chair’s seat includes highly durable molded-plastic that will last for years, and it can comfortably withstand rugged uses. The seat’s height is also adjustable, and without using any tools, you can set it between 16 inches to 20.75 inches. The seat’s width is enough for most users, and it is broad than the standard seats. You will also find drainage holes on the seat that further reduce the fall risks even when the seat is completely wet. The backrest is comprehensive and offers firm support while you are bathing.
Moreover, this bathtub chair by NOVA is super easy to assemble; just fit the armrests and backrest and lock them into place using the soft push buttons. Assembling is quick, and there is no need to use any special tools. You can also remove its backrest if you prefer. The chair’s base is also non-skid and keeps it in place when in use.
Lastly, the aluminum frame is sturdy and light-weight. To be precise, it weighs only 6.8 pounds. Hence it is simple to carry and move. The chair’s frame is also resistant to rust and corrosion.
Pros
- Impressive weight capacity of up to 300lbs.
- Features adjustable height between 16″ to 20.75″.
- The chair is easy to assembly.
- It comes with a removable backrest.
- The feet are sturdy and non-skid.
Cons
- Removable parts get loose after some time.
- A few complain that it feels too light (this gives a feeling of insecurity).
Vaunn Medical Tool-Free Assembly Shower Lift Chair
Next on the list, we have a tall shower chair for the elderly by Vann Medical. The chair features tool-free assembling, and as per consumer reports, it can be assembled in a few minutes. The Vaunn Shower chair allows seniors or people with limited mobility or anyone who needs reliable support while taking a shower. The chair provides a relaxing shower experience and will enable seniors to take a shower independently.
You can also adjust the seat’s height without any tools between 16 inches to 21 inches. The chair weighs only 8.5 pounds, so you can easily move it in or out of the shower without anyone’s help. Furthermore, it comes with a removable backrest, and if you want to reduce its weight further, remove the back, and it will weigh only 6lbs.
Moreover, this Vaunn bathtub chair for disable person features a light-weight and durable anodized aluminum frame. The legs are nicely angled and include non-skid rubbers that allow you to use the chair on any flat surface without worrying about fall. The chair’s weight capacity is up to 250 pounds, which is more than enough for most seniors.
Its polystyrene seat and cushioned armrests are sturdy, and you can lean over it or stand up while using the armrests. The seat also features little holes for smooth water drainage. Lastly, the price is also right, and perhaps it’s the most affordable bathtub chair for the elderly on the market today.
Pros
- Features a high-quality aluminum frame.
- Light-weight design.
- Decent weight capacity.
- It has a removable back and nicely padded armrests.
- You can assemble it in minutes without using any tool.
- Its anti-bacterial polystyrene seat offers optimum comfort.
Cons
- The seat is not that wide as others.
- The included instructions are hard to read.
Drive Medical Premium Series Shower Chair
Our next pick is perfect for those who are looking for the best shower chair for the elderly but without spending extra bucks. This Drive Medical Premium Shower Chair is very much affordable and includes all the features that you will only get in the high-end shower chairs.
The chair is made from high-quality plastic material that can withstand rugged use. Further, the included plastic material is entirely water-proof and resistant to corrosion and rust. So, like metal shower chairs, this will not rust. Overall, build quality is reliable and makes your shower experience more secure and comfortable.
The chair only weighs around 10 pounds; hence moving or carrying it in or out of the shower is a breeze. Despite its light-weight design, it can comfortably bear up to 350 pounds.
Furthermore, the back support, legs, and arms come fully assembled, and you can also remove them without any issue for simple storage and portability. The chair’s seat is wide and suitable for heavy seniors. The height is also adjustable between 16 inches to 20.5 inches.
Lastly, it features visible height indicators that allow you to set the exact height as per your preferences quickly.
Pros
- The legs are sturdy, and the bottom is non-skid.
- Seating is wider than others.
- Rust and corrosion-resistant.
- It comes with a visible height indicator for quick adjustments.
- Affordable price.
- The seat includes drain holes.
Cons
- Some stated that plastic material looks flimsy.
- Feels a bit shaky.
- A few reported algae issues, and it is difficult to clean as well.
DMI Rolling Shower and Commode Transport Chair with Wheels
Next, we have a wheeled shower chair for the elderly by DMI Store. The chair looks elegant in all white, and it is much larger than the others. The chair comes with large, durable wheels that glide over almost all surfaces smoothly, including carpets.
Furthermore, the rear wheels have a reliable locking mechanism, and it keeps it in place firmly. You can also use a wheeled shower chair for seniors as a wheelchair but only for indoor. This is because the chair also features a commode design. Getting in or out of the shower is easy with this wheeled chair, and most importantly, it is safe. Besides, the chair sits perfectly on standard toilets.
To further enhance the comfort level, this wheeled bathtub chair comes with a sturdy and soft backrest. It is made from premium, waterproof PVC materials. The armrests are also well placed and help seniors to sit down or stand up securely. The seat is wide and includes vinyl material. It comes nicely cushioned and will get shallow with usage.
The chair’s weight capacity might not be the best, but it will be enough for most users. It can bear up to 250 pounds comfortably. However, the chair is a bit heavier than the other due to the inclusion of wheels and other features. It weighs around 18lbs. Assembling is not the simplest, but you can tackle it by using provided and standard household tools.
Overall, it is a well-designed option when considering bathtub chairs for elderly loved ones that they can also use as a toilet.
Pros
- Highly durable construction.
- It comes with a waterproof PVC backrest.
- The armrests are comfortable and offer reliable stability.
- Four-inch wheels glide over smoothly on almost all surfaces.
- The chair’s seat is padded and wide.
Cons
- Assembly can be a bit complicated.
- Brakes are too stiff for seniors to use.
- The seat height is not adjustable.
Consider these choices of bathtub chairs for elderly loved ones
As we understand that seniors demand our attention more than anything, it is our responsibility to look after them properly and provide everything to make their life a bit easier. The shower chairs for seniors are one such thing that almost all old aged people need.
By providing the right support and useful accessories to the seniors, you can significantly reduce the risks such as falling in the shower. That’s why you should consider these bathtub chairs for the elderly and include it as part of your bathroom.
Lastly, we hope that this guide will make the shopping easier for you because after this read you have all info about the best bathtub chairs for elderly loved ones.
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