People struggling with mobility often face many new struggles as they try to adjust to new daily routines, such as getting their electric wheelchair to squeeze through various entrances. At home, the usual activities one would typically breeze through in the bathroom, such as bathing, now pose new difficulties. For the elderly, disabled individuals, and those with painful joint problems, staying hygienic safely will require learning a new approach and leveraging bathing aids to ensure they can do their business as independently as possible.
Below, we cover what these methods and tools are so that you or your loved ones can use the bathroom safely and comfortably.
Getting in and Out of the Bathtub
The bath is one of the most dangerous slip hazards in any home due to its acrylic material. Thus, safe entry can prove difficult without the help of bath steps or at least grab rails, making them a must-have investment. These specialised steps come with anti-slip surfaces and often a guide rail that makes it easier to get over the height of the tub. Some are even designed to have adjustable or stackable steps for those needing more elevation.
On the other hand, dedicated mobility grab rails (not the ones that come built-in on the tub) ensure you have strong physical support to lift yourself back out. These are typically mounted to the wall and made from more robust materials like steel. Alternatively, those who require more support may need electric bath lifts. These aids safely move users up and down the bath and are generally secured to the tub floor.
Using the Toilet
Using the toilet can be just as challenging as the bath for PMA users. And just like the latter, adequate support will be necessary to transfer oneself on top of the bowl. Beyond wall grab bars, there are a couple of other innovations that are more suited for the job. Two common examples include toilet frames and raised toilet seats. The first simply provides free-standing handles around an existing appliance and lets users lift and lower themselves with ease. In contrast, the second provides extra height to the toilet for a more comfortable experience.
Taking a Shower
Unlike bathtubs, showers are virtually present in every modern home today and are the preferred option for many mobility aid users due to their greater accessibility. That said, taking a shower still comes with risks, mainly the slippery floor once the water starts running. This is where a shower chair or stool can come in handy, providing better stability for users and eliminating the need to stay standing for the duration of the bath. Additionally, having anti-slip mats on the floor of the shower area will also help prevent any nasty falls while bathing.
Conclusion
Navigating an ordinary home environment can be particularly challenging for mobility aid users, posing risks and some level of discomfort. When it comes to the bathroom, the importance of installing bathing aids cannot be understated since they provide increased safety and a more comfortable experience for various everyday activities, from bathing to using the toilet and more. Grab rails, shower chairs, and other such tools not only reduce their physical strain but also promote their independence, allowing users to regain confidence in their daily routines. Over time, with the support of these aids, bathroom activities will become more seamless and manageable, enhancing overall quality of life.
Whether you need mobility aids to get around or make home living more comfortable, Falcon Mobility (Rebranding to ELFIGO) has you covered. We are one of Singapore’s most trusted providers of mobility solutions, ranging from fully-featured electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters to more traditional options like walking aids and rollators; shipping is available to Malaysia.
Get in touch with us today and let us help you choose the best option so you can be one step closer to significantly improving your quality of life!