Rolling Shower Chair - Handicap Roll In Shower Chairs
A rolling shower chair makes life easier for caregivers. Bathing a loved one or patient is never easy, but with a rolling shower chair, you don't need to worry about transferring the bather from one chair to a shower chair in the cramped area near the shower stall.
Move the bather into the shower chair in the roomiest portion of the bathroom or bedroom and then wheel him/her to the shower stall for the bathing process.
With a roll-in shower chair, the user is placed in the chair and rolled into the shower. Then the shower is turned on. A hand-held shower head is great for cleaning intimate areas. When the shower is done, the shower chair is wheeled back out of the shower to the bedroom or roomier area of the bathroom for drying off and dressing.
Must Have Features of a Roll-in Shower Chair
Roll-in shower chairs should have four non-slip wheels, and at least two of them must lock into place. Locking casters are important safety features.
Foot rests are optimal for rolling shower chairs. By providing a safe foot rest for the bather, there is no risk of their foot dragging on the ground or catching under the casters causing the rolling shower chair to tip or causing injury to the toes or feet.
Carefully check the weight capacity of the shower chair. ADA compliant chairs will hold at least 250 pounds. If the bathers weight fluctuates, a stronger chair may be a better option.
If the user has limited bowel or bladder control, consider a commode shower chair. This adds a commode pail for those accidents. When the shower is over, simply empty the commode contents into the toilet and wash out the bowl. It's much easier than cleaning a shower seat.
Strong Framing Boosts Safety and Durability
Rust-proof aluminum or stainless steel framing is important for strength. Look for welded joints and framing that is secured with rivets rather than nuts and bolts. You'll get a safer roll-in shower chair with these features.
Consider Detachable Arm Rests
Some rolling shower chairs have detachable arm rests. Arm rests are great safety features because they provide a barrier that keeps the bather securely in their seat. It also provides a hand grip for moving back to the wheelchair when the shower is done. When you need to transfer from the chair to a toilet or wheelchair, simply remove one of the arm rests for easier transfers.
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