How to Choose the Right Shower Chair from Drive Medical
What is the purpose of a shower chair?
Shower chairs provide assistance to those who need to sit while bathing. These chairs increase safety for individuals who are at risk for slips, trips and falls.
What kind of shower chair do I need?
There are different types of shower chairs to aid people with varying levels of mobility. Choosing the right one will make all the difference.
-Bath Stool
-Shower Chair
-Transfer Bench
1: Choose Based on Environment
Your bathroom environment will determine what style shower chair is right for you.
Walk-In Shower:
Bath Stool | Shower Chair
Make sure product will fit comfortably. If other family members share the bathroom, consider choosing an item that can easily be removed from the space.
Bathtub:
Bath Stool | Shower Chair
Measure the width of the base of the tub (from the inside). For proper fit, ensure the outside leg dimensions of the product are smaller than the base width of the tub.
Transfer Bench
Ensure there is enough room outside the tub for safe transfer. Measure the distance from the top of tub to the floor. This measurement must be more than the product seat height specifications to ensure proper clearance.
2: Choose Based on Mobility & Support
Least Support
-Functional Mobility & Balance
-Small shower & narrow tub solution
Moderate Support
-Moderate Mobility & Balance
-Post-surgery or low-risk fall solution
Most Support
-Restricted Mobility & Balance
-Post-surgery or high-risk fall solution
3: Choose Based on Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of standard shower chairs ranges from 250 to 400 pounds with additional bariatric models available.
4: Choose a Standard or Specialty Model
Shower chairs with a rotating or sliding feature allow for easier transfer and aid in preventing friction and shearing injuries.
Helpful Hints
Bath Stools & Shower Chairs: Adjust the height to ensure your feet are flat on the floor. Make sure all legs are at the same height.
Transfer Benches: Be aware of the difference between the floor of your bathroom and the floor of the tub when adjusting legs.
Safety Considerations
1. Ensure the leg extensions are securely locked into place.
2. Be sure all leg extensions are touching the floor.
3. Rubber tips aid in preventing slipping upon entry and exit of the tub or shower
See document for additional information and pictures;
How to choose a shower chair.