For a lot of younger people who don’t have mobility issues, using the bathroom or taking a shower is usually a breeze. However, for the elderly or a person with a disability, the story is different.
For starters, it can be difficult to move to the bathroom and perform the normal bathroom routine. The small spaces coupled with the wet surfaces could increase the risk of slipping and sustaining serious injuries, especially for individuals with limited mobility. Fortunately, with the aid of shower commodes, people with reduced mobility can now enjoy comfort and safety in the bathroom without having to worry about slipping or falling.
What are Shower Commodes?
A shower commode is basically a chair that provides a good level of independence as well as reduces the risk of slipping and falling in the bathroom. It comes with an open seat that can be used during a shower or placed over a toilet when the user wants to ease himself or herself. Shower commodes are specifically designed for people who experience difficulty while using the toilet or cannot stand for an extended period of time.
Although Shower Commodes can either be static or wheeled, it is more common to see the wheeled designs as they are typically more convenient and safe.
One great benefit of shower commodes is that they provide users an opportunity to preserve their personal hygiene while showering or using the toilet. Many people with mobility issues often have to sacrifice personal hygiene for safety in the bathroom. However, shower commodes offer them the best of both worlds. This mobility device usually comes with comfortable padded seats that are made out of hygienic materials and can easily be cleaned.
Are There Different Types of Shower Commodes?
Just like most mobility devices or aids, shower commodes come in a variety of designs. These variations include attendant-propelled wheeled shower commodes, self-propelled wheeled shower commodes, and tilt-in-space shower commodes. Tilt-in commodes usually come with reclining features and as such, are a great option for people who need to tilt or recline back in the shower.
Generally, wheeled commodes can either be self-propelled or attendant-propelled. The self-propelled commodes come with large wheels to enable the user to move around the bathroom. On the one hand, attendant-propelled commodes come with comfortable handles for a caregiver or assistant to push the user around.
Users may use any type of shower commode depending on their mobility limitations and what the therapist recommends.
How Do Shower Commodes Aid People?
To the average mobile person, bathrooms can be very dangerous due to their small spaces and extremely slippery surfaces. For people or seniors with limited mobility, it’s even more dangerous. However, using a shower commode can make bathroom trips easier and safer. For starters, they help to significantly reduce the risk of slipping or falling. They also serve as a great aid for seniors and people who can’t use the toilet properly or stand in the shower for an extended period of time.
Shower commodes also promote personal hygiene and help seniors or people with mobility difficulties the bathroom without fear or safety concerns.
How to Safely Use a Shower Commode
Using a shower commode is quite simple as long as the user feels comfortable with the thought of getting in and out of it. To start, all the requirements would need to be prepared. This includes clean towels, soap, a change of clothes and toilet paper (if needed).
The user should be lowered gently into the shower commode and then begin to shower or go about bathroom tasks. When using this device, it is important to move calmly without pressure or panic. If you’re worried about the device skidding or losing balance, you can lock the wheels in place.
Once the user is done, he/she should exit the bathroom while the commode should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place.
How to Properly Care for and Maintain a Shower Commode
Like any other mobility aid or device, shower commodes should be taken care of properly to ensure their durability and hygiene. The seat should be wiped properly and thoroughly after each use to maintain proper hygiene. In the same vein, the wheels should be cleaned regularly to avoid dirt clogging them and limiting their mobility.
Since shower commodes are usually used in the bathroom, they come in contact with water and as such, are prone to rust, mold, wear and tear. Thus, it is advisable to always check for these signs.
Finally, all parts should be checked regularly to ensure that they still work properly.
Consult with an Expert at GTK
For more information on shower commodes and other related issues, feel free to contact us at GTK. You can speak with an expert about all your mobility-related problems and needs. Have any questions? Contact us right away!
