In my opinion, shower chairs and the elderly go hand-in-hand. Even if you’re not considered “elderly” a fall in the shower or bathtub can be dangerous. In fact, just last week I slipped on a particularly slippery part of the shower and the first thing I thought of is “oh Lord, they’re going to find me naked”!
Seriously, falling in the shower is far too common an occurrence and a big issue regarding home safety for seniors. In fact, according to a recent article in the New York Times, the most hazardous activities for all ages are bathing, showering and getting out of the tub or shower. Injuries in or near the bathtub or shower account for more than two-thirds of emergency room visits.
Also, according to the CDC, injury rates increase with age. A whopping 80% of all injuries are associated with a fall.
Shower chairs are not just important for safety. They can also be a must-have for someone who is disabled and needs assistance in the shower, which was the case with my mom.
What Is A Shower Chair
Shower chairs are portable chairs (although some can be permanently installed) that can be taken in and out of the bathtub or shower. They give people a safe spot to sit while taking a shower. Shower chairs make it easier for people suffering from arthritis, bad back or those who are elderly and have limited mobility.
They are especially handy for caregivers who are assisting people with a bath or shower and make it much safer for both the caregiver and person being assisted.
Shower chairs are made from lightweight materials that are not damaged in water such as plastic and aluminum. They are easy to clean and dry quickly. They typically consist of plastic seat, aluminum legs and rubberized feet to keep them from slipping.
They come in a number of different styles and you can easily find one that fits your bath or shower. Let’s take a look at some of the different shower chairs available.
Different Types of Shower Chairs
Standard Shower Chair With or Without a Back
These chairs have four legs and look basically like a regular chair. Some of them have hand grips to make it easier to stand up and lower yourself down in the chair. You can also buy them with a back depending on the amount of support needed.