Why Every Senior Needs a Suspended Bath Seat

The bathroom is a space where accidents, particularly among seniors, are all too common. Numerous devices can help reduce the risk of falls and enable seniors to bathe securely. In this article, we’ll focus on one such device: the suspended bath seat. This solution significantly reduces the risk of falls by allowing individuals to take their bath or shower while seated, providing a sense of serenity.

In this guide, we’ll explore the profound benefits of suspended bath seats for seniors and introduce you to some of the best options available.

What are Suspended Bath Seat:

This is how it looks :

A suspended bath seat is a seating solution tailored for the bathtub. Unlike bath boards, which provide a flat surface that fits across the width of the bathtub, or wall-mounted seats that are affixed to the bathroom wall, the suspended bath seat hangs or is suspended from the sides of the bathtub. Its primary purpose is to allow seniors to sit in the bath without lowering all the way to the bottom. This is particularly beneficial for those who might find it challenging to lower and raise themselves into and out of a full-depth bath.

Why choose a suspended Bath Seat:

The fact that these seats are removable offers a significant advantage over mounted devices. This flexibility not only allows seniors to sit in the bathtub and take a bath as needed but also accommodates households with multiple users. In addition to that, the suspended bath seats can be used in tandem with other bathroom safety fixtures such as grab bars, it doubles the safety set up.

The design of these seats typically allows for straightforward cleaning and ensures minimal water accumulation.

Finally, suspended bath seats often are a cost-effective solution. Because when compared to more complex devices like powered bath lift chairs or extensive bathroom renovations, these seats are typically more affordable which makes them a budget-friendly option for seniors or families looking to improve bathroom accessibility without incurring significant expenses.

So, if you have a limited budget and have multiple users sharing the bathroom, this type of device might be preferable.

Moreover, we do not recommend it for seniors with very limited mobility. For instance, individuals with severe mobility challenges might find a bath lift chair more suitable, as it mechanically assists in raising or lowering the user into the bath.

Another limitation to consider is the weight capacity. Suspended bath seats often come with weight restrictions and might not be sturdy enough to support overweight individuals.

Best Suspended Bath seats For Seniors:

1. Suspended Bath Seat By Homecraft

Constructed with an aluminium frame and a plastic seat with drainage holes, the Homecraft Suspended Bath Seat ensures safety and comfort for the elderly, people with handicaps, or those recovering from injury. The seat’s overall width can be adjusted to fit most bathtubs and is easy to assemble with the included tools. A unique cut-out facilitates personal cleaning, and a backrest provides additional support.

Pros:

• Adjustable width to fit most bathtubs.
• Backrest offers additional support and safety.
• Plastic seat with drainage holes ensures easy cleaning and drying.
• Unique cut-out design for personal cleaning convenience.

Cons:

• Some users found it challenging to assemble, especially the backrest.
• There might be a need for additional cushioning for some users.

2. Bathtub-seat Secura Anthracite-extendable By Maximex

The Maximex Bathtub-seat Secura is a silver-colored, metal constructed seat designed to enhance the bathing experience, especially for individuals with physical limitations. With an adjustable width ranging from 55 to 65 cm, it ensures compatibility with conventional bathtubs. The seat offers a comfortable anthracite-colored surface, sized at 37 x 27 cm, and has a commendable load-bearing capacity of up to 150 kg.

Pros:

• Adjustable width to fit most conventional bathtubs.
• Comfortable seat surface sized 37 x 27 cm.
• Load-bearing capacity of up to 150 kg.
• TUV/GS (MOT/GS) tested for reliability.

Cons:

• Some users found assembly challenging.
• Quality concerns based on a few user reviews.
• Potential fit issues with certain standard bathtubs.

3. Mondo Medical Adjustable Shower Bench Seat – 330lb Capacity Across Tub Suspended Bath Bench for Elderly and Disabled

The Mondo Medical Adjustable Shower Bench Seat provides enhanced safety for those who may face challenges during bathing. Made with high-quality materials, it promises stability and support for the elderly and disabled, making showering a stress-free experience.

Pros:

• Makes sitting and rising in the tub easier.
• 330-pound (150kg) weight-bearing capacity.
• Adjustable width for optimal fit across various bathtubs.
• Drainage holes to prevent water and soap accumulation.
• Easy assembly with metal clips.

Cons:

• Potential fitting issues with certain bathtubs.
• Seat sits low, which might be uncomfortable for some users.

In Conclusion

Suspended bath seats have distinct advantages. They offer flexibility, as they can be easily removed to accommodate multiple users.Moreover, they are budget-friendly option compared to some other devices.

Yet, as with any product, they come with their set of considerations. Not all suspended bath seats will fit every bathtub, and some might not support heavier individuals. Additionally, very immobile seniors may require alternative other bath standing solutions.

In the end, it is very important to know that selecting the right suspended bath seat requires a fit to the bathtub dimensions.