What is a shower stool?
A shower stool is a mobility aid designed to assist those with limited mobility, the elderly, those with long-term conditions, and those recovering from surgery to shower independently. Shower stools allow users to sit whilst showering, providing a safe place for users to rest and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Who benefits from using a shower stool?
A shower stool is often beneficial for those with limited mobility the elderly, those with long-term conditions, and those recovering from surgery. Shower stools are designed to reduce the risk of falls, manage fatigue and maintain independence. Shower stools are commonly used by those who suffer from fatigue, joint pain, leg pain, arthritis, COPD, those with balance issues and similar.
When is a shower stool used?
Shower stools can be used for the full duration of the shower or can also be used or can similarly be used as a place to sit whilst users wash their legs and feet or shave.
What height should the shower stool be set to?
When setting the height of your shower stool, it is important that your feet are flat on the floor and your knees remain level or slightly below your hips. The shower stool's legs should be even and sit flat on the ground.
Do shower stools include a shower head holder?
This depends on the model purchased; some do have this feature, which is especially beneficial for those who struggle to lean forward and reach for the shower head if it falls on the floor.
Do shower stools come with backrests and armrests?
Shower stools are available with or without backrests. Some models also feature armrests.
Do the NHS provide shower stools?
Yes the NHS often provide shower stools to eligible individuals. To receive a shower stool through the NHS, you will usually need a home assessment completed by your local council or Occupational Therapist (OT). Shower stools via the NHS are usually provided free on a loaned basis; the lead time and type of stool you receive can vary, which is why many opt to purchase them privately.
What should you check before buying a shower stool?
Firstly, ensure a shower stool is suitable for you based on your abilities, if you are unsure, contact your GP or Occupational Therapist for advice. It is important to check the capacity of the shower stool to ensure it is suitable for your weight. We recommend checking the size of the stool to ensure it will fit within your bathroom, and checking that the seat width is suitable for your frame. It is also important to check the minimum and maximum height the stool can be set to. Ensure the floor of your shower or wet room is flat to allow the chair to sit flat on the ground for stability.
How do you adjust the height of a shower stool?
The majority of shower stools and shower chairs are height-adjustable to allow you to achieve a comfortable seated position. They are usually simple to adjust by pressing the spring-loaded locking pin to extend or reduce the length of the legs.
Do I require a shower stool with a backrest?
Shower stools with a backrest are beneficial for providing additional support and comfort when showering.
Do I require a shower stool with armrests?
Shower stools with armrests are especially beneficial for those who struggle to sit down or stand up from a seated position.
What is the difference between a shower stool and perching stool?
Shower stools are designed specifically for use in showers and wet rooms and act like a chair or stool. A perching stool can be used around the home or in the bathroom, depending on your chosen model. The main difference is that the seat of a perching stool is slanted which promotes a semi-standing position, in turn reducing strain on your lower back and making it easier to transition between sitting and standing.
Is VAT relief available on shower stools?
As a mobility aid, shower stools and shower chairs can be purchased VAT-exempt by eligible individuals and charities in the UK.
What is the benefit of a portable shower stool over a fixed shower stools?
Portable shower stools are perfect for those seeking a temporary mobility aid which can provide support. They are also beneficial in shared bathrooms as they can easily be lifted and moved out of the way. They are quick and easy to set up whilst the fixed solution required a handyman or similar to drill into the wall to fix a shower stool in place.
What type of shower stools are available?
There is a wide range of shower stools available including bariatric shower stools, folding shower stools, solutions with backrests and armrests, corner shower stools, fixed shower stools and more.
What is the most compact shower stool?
When looking for a compact shower stool, a folding shower stool is generally best as they can be folded for storage after use.
Where are shower stools found?
Shower stools are often found in homes, carehomes and in hospitals.
How do you clean a shower stool?
Shower stools are designed to be easy to clean and can usually be cleaned with warm water and a non abrasive soap.
What material are shower stools made from?
Shower stools generally have a plastic seat and metal legs.
What mobility aids complient shower stools?
Many looking to improve safety in the bathroom or shower will also consider mobility aids such as bath steps and grab rails.
Do The Ramp People offer fixed shower stools?
At present The Ramp People only sell portable shower stools.
What is a bath step?
A bath step is a mobility aid designed to assist those with limited mobility, disabilities, those recovering from surgery, and elderly individuals to safely step in and out of the bath. Bath steps reduce the distance between the floor and the bath, making it easier for users to lift their legs and enter or exit the bath safely. In turn, they help reduce strain, discomfort, and the risk of slips and falls whilst improving bathroom safety and independence.
What material are bath steps made from?
The bath steps are manufactured from plastic to provide a lightweight mobility aid which can easily be moved into position. The plastic design is waterproof and long-lasting.
What height are bath steps?
Bath steps are generally around 10cm in height; however, many offer a stackable design to allow you to stack multiple units on top of one another to create heigher heights where needed.
Is VAT relief available on bathroom steps?
As a mobility aid, bathroom steps can be purchased VAT-exempt by eligible individuals and charities in the UK.
Do the NHS provide bath steps?
Yes, the NHS often provide bath steps to eligible individuals. To receive a bath step through the NHS, you will usually need a home assessment completed by your local council or Occupational Therapist (OT). Bathroom steps via the NHS are usually provided free on a loaned basis; the lead time and type you receive can vary, which is why many opt to purchase them privately.
What is the difference between bath steps and outdoor half steps?
The bathroom steps are generally manufactured from plastic and offered in white or a blue and white design, with stackable solutions available. Outdoor half steps are available in a wider range of materials, including plastic and metal solutions. The bath steps generally have rubber feet underneath, designed to help them to stay in position when on wet or slippery bathroom floors.
Are bath steps safe to use on wet floors?
Yes they are designed for use in wet floors. Most have a non-slip surface and rubber feet for stability.
What height bath step do I need?
The height does depend on your mobility needs and abilities. The step should reduce the effort required to step in and out of the bath whilst allowing you to maintain balance. If you are unsure, you can speak to your OT or doctor for advice. In addition, as many are stackable, you could purchase one step and, if a higher height is required, purchase a second step at a later date.
Do The Ramp People provide extra-wide bath steps?
The bath steps are a set size however many of the bath steps can be placed side by side to create a wider stepping area.
What colour bath step should I choose?
For those with limited vision or for use in care home settings, a similar blue and white bath step is recommended. At The Ramp People, we do also offer white bath steps.
Can bath steps be secured to the floor?
The Ramp People's bath steps are designed as portable so they can not be secured to the floor.
What installation do bathroom steps require?
Bath steps are lightweight, portable mobility aids which require no installation; simply put in front of the bath and start using.
Do The Ramp People offer bath steps with handrails?
At present The Ramp People do not offer indoor bath steps with handrails.
