Shower Chairs

Shower Chair FAQs & Buying Guide

What to Look for in a Shower Chair for Elderly Users?

There are a few things you should look out for when shopping for shower chairs for the elderly. Firstly, make sure that the chair is comfortable and supportive. It should have a firm metal or plastic seat and backrest, and ideally, be adjustable so that it can be customised to the individual's body shape. Secondly, safety is paramount, so look for a chair with good grip handrails and non-slip feet. 

Finally, consider ease of use when selecting a chair- some models come with built-in features like footrests or spinning seats to make showering easier (and more enjoyable!) for the user. Whatever model you choose, just remember to keep improved safety and maximum comfort in mind and if in doubt consult with a healthcare professional to get extra assistance or even just their expert recommendations on what would work best in your bathroom.

What is the Best Shower Chair for the Elderly?

Shower chairs are medical equipment used to provide additional support to elderly or temporarily disabled people when showering. While there are many benefits of using such equipment, there are also a few key factors you will want to consider when choosing the best model, such as weight limit, size, and features.

One of the most important things to look for when choosing a shower chair is how much weight it can hold. You will also want to make sure that the wide seat is large enough to accommodate the user of the shower chair. Some chairs come with special features, such as built-in handholds or seat height adjustment features, which can make bathing easier for those who need assistance.

Some healthcare professionals recommend choosing a lightweight shower chair with a wide base in order to provide added stability, and some chairs also come with adjustable legs so that you can customise the height based on your needs. Additionally, if the chair is intended for long term use, make sure to choose a chair that is comfortable with soft padding and armrests.

If you have a small bathroom or wet room and are worried about space, You may want to consider a wall mounted seat or shower stools.

When is Using a Shower Chair Necessary?

Shower seats are mobility aids that helps people with limited mobility or balance to bathe themselves. You might need a shower chair if you have difficulty standing, bathing yourself, or if you are wheelchair-bound.

If you have difficulty standing for any length of time, or find that you become lightheaded or dizzy when standing, you should consider using a shower chair. Some other signs that you may need a shower chair are if you experience joint pain when standing, feel unsteady on your feet, or have difficulty bending down to bathe.

If you are not sure whether shower chairs would be helpful for you, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help assess your individual needs and make recommendations about the best shower chairs for your individual situation.

How Do You Shower with Shower Chairs?

There are a few different ways to shower with the assistance of a shower chair. One option is to use a handheld shower head. This will allow you to more easily direct the water over your body while sitting in the chair. You can also purchase a special attachment that goes over the top of your current shower head and allows you to direct the water towards you while sitting in the chair if your existing one does not reach far enough.

Another option is to install a special, adjustable shower head designed specifically for use with a shower chair. This type of shower head typically has a long hose so that you can easily move it around your body. It also often has multiple settings, so you can better control the water while you are situated in the shower chair.

Can You Put a Non Specialised Chair in the Shower?

Yes, you can put a regular chair in the shower rather than a shower chair; however, this is not advisable for long term use. A regular chair does not have the same wet-proofing as a shower chair and can quickly become damaged. Additionally, using a regular chair in the shower could lead to falls and other injuries. Non-specialised chairs are not designed to be anti-slip in showers and do not offer the same stability as a specially designed shower chair. 

If you do not have a shower chair, a better alternative would be to use a raised toilet seat or shower stools in the shower instead of a regular chair. This will allow you to maintain your balance while sitting down and will help to prevent falls. However, if you need a more long term solution and are looking for something that is specifically designed for use in the shower, there are many options available to suit your needs.

Can I Put a Wooden Chair in the Shower?

There are a few things you should keep in mind before doing this. First, wood is a porous material and will absorb water, so it could start to rot over time. Second, if the chair gets wet and then dries out, it could shrink and crack. Finally, metal screws and hardware on wooden chairs can rust over time if they're exposed to water regularly.

It is not recommended that you put a wooden chair in your shower, however, if you decide to go ahead and put your chair in the shower anyway, make sure you dry it off thoroughly afterwards (and maybe give it a coat of sealant or paint) to help protect it from moisture. If you notice any changes in the appearance or feel of the wood, or if it starts to smell musty, stop using it in the shower and replace the chair immediately with a high-quality shower chair as it is no longer good enough quality to sit on for support.

Considerations For When a Patient is Using a Shower Chair?

There are a few things to keep in mind when using a patient shower seat. First and foremost, it's important to ensure that the chair is properly assembled and that all safety features are in place before use. Patients should always be seated upright on the chair with their feet flat on the floor, and it's important to never leave them unattended in the shower. Additionally, caregivers should take into account user weight and physical condition when selecting a shower stool. Heavy patients may require a heavier-duty model, while those with limited mobility may need a model with adjustable armrests or footrests for added support.

How Do You Shower Using a Shower Seat?

A shower chair is a great way to remain independent while showering. There are a few things you'll need to do before using your shower chair for the first time:

1. Make sure your shower is at a comfortable height to manoeuvre in and out of - about waist height. You don't want to have to stand or reach up or down too much when you're in the shower as this may increase fall risk.
2. If you have a handheld shower head, make sure it's accessible and within reach when sat on your shower chair. It may be useful to have a caregiver on hand to help you reach it more easily.
3. Install a grab bar near the entrance of your shower and another near the seat of your chair. This will give you something to hold on to while getting in and out of the shower and help you raise and lower yourself into and out of the shower stool.