Shower Wheelchairs
Taking a shower is one of the most common of daily tasks for most of us, but for people with handicaps, injuries or illness that leaves them with mobility issues it can be a rather daunting task. With hundreds of people injured in bathroom accidents every year, it is easy to see how people with disabilities - who are at an even greater risk for slip and fall accidents - might see the bathroom as a dangerous place.
Research has led to some great advances that offer a solution to this problem. A shower wheelchair is one that can be rolled directly into the shower, thus reducing the risk of slips and falls by walking or standing on slippery floors. In some cases, shower chairs can even double as commode since the basic design structure is so similar.
The Design
The design of a shower wheelchair is not all that dissimilar to any other manual chair, with a few exceptions. The wheels are a given, after all it is a wheel chair. The seat features a rounded cut out similar to a toilet seat to allow the user to reach the entire body without having to stand. The arm rests are generally removable as well, to allow for more freedom when the patient's situation is such that this is possible. Shower chairs are most commonly made of plastic or rust proofed steel and as such they are waterproof. Optional backrests are also available.
In order to use a shower wheelchair, a specially designed shower must be available. An appropriate shower design will have no raised threshold, allowing the user to wheel themselves right into the shower area without having to lift the chair. If mobility allows, you might consider leaving the chair in the shower or placing it there ahead of time and simply placing the patient in the chair while they wash themselves.
Other considerations include the availability of hand rails in the shower area to assist with maneuverability, as well as hand held shower attachments and lower towel rods. Be sure to take note of the height of the chair to ensure that the user can comfortably reach the shower control knobs while seated.
The Cost
Believe it or not, shower wheelchairs are not terribly expensive, and can often be purchased new for anywhere from $100 to $200. As a shower chair is not intended for prolonged or extended use, you can often find them for even lower prices if you look for a used chair. Inspect the used chair before purchasing to ensure that there are no breaks or cracks in the plastic that could cause injury, and also pay attention to the wheels to make sure they move freely and smoothly.
A shower wheelchair can be a fantastic tool that makes life easier and more comfortable for those with limited mobility as well as those who care for them. By restoring a level of personal independence while in the bathroom, shower chairs also help to restore confidence, comfort and safety.
