Bath Chairs - What Are They And Are They Right For You?
Bath chairs are simple devices used to assist people when
taking a shower or a bath. They can often times resemble a regular chair, but with a few twists to allow for use in
a wet environment. Whether it be due to a recent fall and you have a temporary mobility issue, or a long term
disability or other condition that causes you to require ongoing assistance bathing, you can rest assured there is
a make and model to suit your needs.
The styles of bath seats or chairs range from the standard looking basic chair which enables you to sit in the
shower in comfort and not have the worry that you will slip or fall, all the way up to a bath lift that attaches to
your tub and lowers you in.
The lower end models for obvious reasons are the cheapest cost-wise. These usually resemble a regular chair that
is designed with durable material that can withstand the water in your bath/shower. They are made of rust resistant
materials and are light weight for easy maneuvering. This type is the best solution for someone that has a short
term mobility condition from a cost perspective.
Although they are cheap and there is absolutely no installation needed, these bath aids are also limited to
shower use only as they do not lower you into the bath. These models can also be found in a bench style, with
adjustable seating, providing more room for added comfort.
Another style of bath chairs are ones that also needs no installation. They can be placed in the tub and have
suction cups on the feet of the chair for extra safety. The difference from the basic model chair is that these
chairs actually lower you into the bath enabling you to have the full bath experience without having the worry of
getting in and out with your own strength. Depending on the model, the bath chairs have high, comfortable backs and
seats that give you both support and comfort. These are battery operated and can lower and lift the individual for
an average of 10-15 times per charge.
Along with all the great features mentioned, they can also be compact and light weight, meaning the user can
remove it from the bathtub after each use, providing them with as much privacy as they want.
Bathing cushions are along the same lines as the bath chair, but are actually inflatable and use very low air
pressure to lower and lift the individuals into and out of the bath. These chairs deflate so you can be completely
submerged and not even know you are on a chair. They are also battery operated and need no installation. Battery
charging is also required with this type of model.
The top models, and a little more costly due to the amenities, are the bath lifts that attach to your bath.
These are a great option when the individual has extreme mobility issues as they have a swivel and sliding seat
that allows the user to enter the tub with the most amount of ease from the edge of the bath. The user can then
lift their legs over the side of the bath and glide into the center of the chair; at this point the bath chair will
lower them into the bath.
So as you can see, there are several styles of bath chairs available with varying options to suit your personal
taste and requirements. Whether you are looking for a long term solution or a temporary fix to your mobility issue,
there is an answer for everyone.
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