A Quick Guide to Buy Commode And Toilet Accessories

In old age, losing one's balance or strength can make simple things like lifting heavy items, using the toilet, etc difficult. Moreover, with limited mobility, the risk of getting injured while using the toilet increases.

So, to help you avoid any such injuries, we've listed some useful toileting aids that will make your visits to the toilet more comfortable and practical.

Commode Chairs

Being able to live independently and look after oneself despite mobility limitations is important for almost everyone, especially when it comes to personal hygiene. A commode chair can help you do just that by allowing you to go to the toilet without external help. Basically, you can call it a mobile toilet that users can keep in their vicinity. It can be a boon to those who are unable to cover the distance to the bathroom due to frailty or any other reason. For the waste, there is a pan attached to the commode that is removable. You can easily empty its contents as and when required.

Here are the common types of commode chairs:

Portable: These are often foldable and flexible enough for you to carry them anywhere. Most have wheels.

Static: These do not have wheels. They usually come with the feature of detachable arms for mobility. This type of chair is sometimes available with an attractive finish, making it look like an ordinary piece of furniture.

Bariatric: Designed for heavier individuals, this type of chair can carry up to 600 pounds. They provide enough space for the person to use it comfortably.

Hence, this type of toilet aids can be a great option for older adults who would not want to be dependent on anyone for their personal needs.

Padded Toilet Seats

Most people associate the padded toilet seat with increased comfort. However, it comes with other advantages as well. Adaptable for all age groups, it can be useful for people with slight disabilities or reduced mobility. These are portable seats that you can place on your toilet seats for improved comfort.

Before choosing one, it is important to consider the shape of your toilet. Toilet seats come in different shapes such as round, elongated, etc. Hence, to make the right choice, it becomes important that you consider your toilet seat's shape and buy accordingly.

Advantages:

Provides Comfort

They provide a soft seating area. While a hard toilet seat is usually cold, a padded toilet seat provides warmth because of the cushion cover on top. Apart from that, it can be beneficial for people recovering from surgery or childbirth as their transfers to and from wheelchairs or shower benches can be difficult.

Easy to set up

This type of seat fits over toilets in the same way as standard toilet seats. There are no extra steps required to install them.

Easy to clean

With elevated seats and armrests, it becomes easy for elderly people to make their bathroom visits comfortable. Also, they are easy to maintain as most of them have removable padding or cushions. Hence, at the time of cleaning, you can easily remove the cushion and clean it.

Adjustable Toilet Frames

Adjustable toilet frames fit around the toilet and provide valuable support to the users. These frames are adjustable in width and height. If you want to elevate your toilet seat, you can place the toilet frame around it. It helps the elderly or people with limited mobility to easily sit or get up from the toilet seat. They provide a handhold on which users can rest as it transfers some bodyweight to the upper body. You can fix some models permanently to the floor, making them more stable.

Grab Rails

You can use these rails to support yourself while using the toilet. You can fix them to the walls as fixed units, fold them down when in use and fold up afterwards. Vertical floor to ceiling poles are another type of rail mainly useful to people who have the adequate upper body strength to pull themselves from a sitting position.

Pro-Tip

Above mentioned products are mostly for people who need equipment to help them in their day-to-day lives. When you properly leverage living aids, they can make your routine easier. At the same time, it is important that you contact a qualified professional for any type of permanent fitting of items like grab rails or fixed toilet frames.

Source :

https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/611188489789276160/a-quick-guide-to-buy-commode-and-toilet 

Buying an Overbed Table - All You Need to Know

Anything from a minor illness to severe accident may render a person bed-bound.

An overbed table is one of the few disability aids that might make performing daily routine activities easier for bed-bound people. It fits over your bed and lets you do your work while at rest. Just like many disability aids, this equipment also has several variations.

Let's understand these and how you can choose the right one for your use.

Types of Overbed Tables

The purpose of use and construction design are two main criteria for the classification of this type of tables.

A. On the Basis of Purpose of Use

• Inpatient
  Inpatient overbed tables, as the name indicates, are for care centres, clinics and hospitals. Bed-ridden seniors or recovery patients may find them useful for dining, reading, etc.
  
  Generally, they can bear a weight of over 100 pounds. A patient can dine, read or write on them. Doctors can even put heavy medical equipment on their surface.
• Bariatric
  Bariatric overbed tables are similar to inpatient overbed tables in function and appearance. The difference is: a larger table top to support larger patients.
• Paediatric
  
  These type of tables are especially for kids. A variety of colours and kid-friendly designs can make the environment cheerful for kids.You can feed them or let them enjoy activities like reading, writing, painting, etc. on them. They might also be useful in paediatric hospitals as hospital trays to cater to sick kids in an efficient way.

B. On the Basis of Construction Design

1. Adjustable Tilt Top

As the name indicates, these tables have adjustable table tops. You can easily tilt them to some degree for optimal use. This may prevent your neck or back from straining.

They again are of two types:

• Single Surface
  They have a single resting surface. Generally, they come in handy to serve food to patients in bed. They can also support other activities like reading or writing, but only one at a time.
  
  
• Dual-Surface
  They have tabletops in two sections, one larger and the other smaller. Easy tilting of the table-top makes them highly useful and versatile.The larger section is useful for putting a laptop on, eating, reading, writing, etc. The smaller section is to accommodate the things you can't afford to tilt like drinks. Slip guards on the edges prevent objects from rolling off.

2. Non-Adjustable Top

They can be a good option for patients with mobility restrictions. As they are light in weight, they can be more convenient to use. Generally, you can adjust their height as per the height of your bed.

They are comparatively less versatile due to their non-adjustable tilt angle.

3. Folding

They are lightweight yet durable and strong. They are ideal for a variety of activities like eating, drinking, reading, or working on a laptop.

They are foldable, adding to their ease of use and storage. Raised edges around their top surface prevent things from falling off.

Things to consider when picking an Overbed Table:

It is important to consider the factors in your particular situation before making your choice. There are several that can help you select the right one:

Dimensions

The dimensions of the overbed table you pick should fit your requirements. Consider the framework of your bed and the space you have. Make sure that your bed has enough clearance space beneath it to let you roll the wheels freely.

Tilt

The adjustable tilt top variant can be the right choice if you want support for performing multiple activities besides dining like writing or reading. However, for a single activity at a time or minimal use like dining, a non-adjustable variant may be more suitable.

Storage

The heavy duty variant can be the right choice for hospitals and health care centres. For home or for greater accessibility and ease of use and storage, folding overbed tables can be ideal.

Height

Most of these types of tables have adjustable heights. This feature makes them adjustable for different bed heights. You can set them in a position and lock them. The height-adjustable variants are also useful for wheelchairs and recliners. Therefore, going for the adjustable height variants always can be useful.

To Wrap Up

Disability aids might help make a person's life better post an injury, illness or accident. An overbed table also makes a great difference for a patient with mobility restrictions.

Analyzing all the types of overbed table available before choosing the one that suits you the best is crucial. Besides your own analysis and assessment, consulting an occupational therapist is a good idea before making a choice.

Source : 

https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/610996872393506816/buying-an-overbed-table-all-you-need-to-know/

Choosing Between Forearm And Underarm Crutches

As a person gets older, ageing-related maladies may affect their quality of life. They may need support to move around or stand. An injury or accident may also render a person temporarily disabled. Domestic injuries, workplace injuries, and sports injuries are some of the common problems. A congenital disease may also be the cause of a person's disability.

Mobility aids come in handy for a person suffering from a short-term as well as lifelong disability. They provide support to people, help them move around, stand, walk and perform all daily-routine activities with more ease.

One of the most common and valuable mobility aids for people with leg injuries or disabilities are crutches. They give support to people with balance or coordination issues.

There are several crutch variants available in the market. However, picking the right one is crucial. The reason is: a wrong choice may defeat the purpose of buying it. Out of the different crutch variants available in the market, forearm and underarm are the two most common.

Let's understand the factors to consider while choosing the right crutch variant of the two.

Factors to Consider While Choosing the Right Crutch Variant

Balance and Movement

Balance is a crucial factor in deciding the on crutches. Without proper body balance, you may have a hard time standing, even for a short period.

If you require a crutch just for temporary issues and balance your upper body by yourself, considering the forearm variant can be useful. Though you may find it relatively difficult to use initially, it may serve you well in the long run.

This variant may also let you move freely in different gaits in different trains once you master the art of using it. It can also come in handy for walking long distances without putting too much strain on your body.

Unlike the forearm variant, the underarm versions may come in handy for people with more serious balance issues or suffering from neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, etc.

Though you can use this one easily, it may offer a little less flexibility. You might also feel comparatively more pain and strain in your muscles when you use it for longer durations. This pain may restrict your motion further.

Upper Body / Torso Strength

Crutches don't require a person to have strength in their arms alone. They transfer the weight from a person's lower body, especially legs to their torso, not just arms. So, it is important to keep in mind that your torso strength plays a crucial role when choosing the crutch.

Though both crutch variants require your upper body strength, the forearm crutch may require more. Hence, if you have enough strength in abdominal and pelvic muscles and arms, going with the forearm crutch variant may be beneficial.

On the other hand, if you require a little more torso strength, considering the underarm variant might be useful. It can be easier to use and you might be able to walk without straining your body much.

Posture

Last but not the least: posture. It also plays a crucial role in deciding the right crutch type.

If your torso has enough strength and can bear enough weight, choosing the forearm variant may work the best for you. This variant doesn't let you slouch over and helps you stand straight.

On the contrary, the underarm variant might have a bad effect on a person's posture over time. People often tend to slouch over and transfer their entire weight to their shoulders when tired. Eventually, the use of this variant might lead to pain and strain in their backs. In the long run, they may develop backache and other issues due to bad posture.

Therefore, first-time users might consider going for the forearm variant unless they are completely unable to carry their bodyweight.

In a Nutshell

While mobility aids are helpful for people with temporary or permanent disability issues, choosing the right ones really matters. A pair of crutches can be a great asset for people who have had leg injuries, mobility or balance issues, or degenerative diseases.

It is important to get the opinion of an expert before choosing crutches. Factors like your purpose, the severity of your condition, flexibility, body posture and torso strength must all be taken into account. Always consult a medical professional who has first-hand knowledge of your condition before choosing.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/190941559943/choosing-between-forearm-and-underarm-crutches

Helping The Elderly And Patients With Cleaning

Maintaining hygiene includes basic activities like brushing, flossing, washing hands, and most importantly taking a bath. However, the elderly, patients of neuromuscular disorders, or accident survivors may suffer from mobility limitations.

Hence, keeping clean may not be just another activity for them. They may find difficulty taking a bath or even need help for that.

There are several bathroom equipment that can aid them in their cleaning. Let's read about the various aids that can offer great help to patients and the elderly.

1. Shower Chair/Bath Seat

The choice between the two depends on various factors.
A bath seat can be generally preferable for those who may need to take baths sitting or reclining in a bathtub. People who can't sit for long periods and have very limited strength may find it more useful as reclining is easier for them.

A shower chair can be a good option for those with enough strength to sit for longer periods. Some variants also come with a backrest to provide support. Therefore, people without severe mobility restrictions can consider using a shower chair.

2.Shampoo Basin

A shampoo basin can be a good option for people who might have difficulty reaching the bathroom. A caretaker can use this aid to wash or shampoo a bed-ridden person's hair. An integral valve hose helps drain water easily.

Besides, you can deflate it when not in use so it doesn't occupy much space.

3. Sponges and Scrubbers

Sponges and scrubbers may facilitate cleaning for people with mobility limitations. Some of them are:

• Body BrushWith smooth bristles on each side, a body brush provides a massaging effect. You can use it to clean the areas that are hard to reach.
• Flannel StrapA flannel strap can act as a towel for people with reduced mobility. A person can use it to scrub legs or back. One side is coarser than the other to help exfoliate the skin. The handles at both ends provide the ease of use and better grip.
• Toe Washer A toe washer may be ideal for use in a shower or bath for people with limited flexibility. It may also make it easier for them to clean parts of lower extremity like toes and feet without the need for them to strain much to bend forward.
   

4. Bath Lift
A bath lift can be a good option for people who can sit easily but have problems with getting in or out of a bathtub. The reclining backrest powered by a battery provides comfort and support you need.

Generally, lightweight hand control is available to operate the lowering and raising functions. Some variants of bath lifts are also foldable making them easy to transport and store in small spaces.

5. Hand-Held Shower
A hand-held shower or shower head positioner may ease showering for people with reaching capacity constraints. The elderly who shower in a seated position may also find it handy. You can mount it at an appropriate location on a wall in your bathroom. The long movable showerhead holder makes it easily accessible for washing all parts of the body.

6. Shower Screen/Bath Curtain Screen

A portable shower screen may provide the privacy a person needs when showering or bathing. People can use a shower chair or stool when showering. Besides, being lightweight makes it easier to carry it from one place to another.

Similarly, a bath curtain screen can also be a useful privacy aid for bathtubs.
Further, you can stop water from splashing onto the bathroom floor by using this aid. A movable joint enables easy positioning of the screen. This screen also doesn't experience any strong downward force due to its lightweight.

7. Bath Pillow

People with skin issues, fragile skin or posterior injuries or wounds might find a bath pillow useful. This pillow might enhance their bathing experience by preventing their backs from rubbing against the hard surface of a bathtub.

8. Cast and Dressing Protectors

Cast and dressing protectors waterproof a person's dressings or casts. They prevent ingress of water to ankles, legs or feet and prevent any damage it can cause. Their constituent material is primarily durable plastic. So, you can dry and use them multiple times.

In a Nutshell
All the above-mentioned aids offer the much-needed help to the elderly or patients. Especially the bath seat. You can also combine these aids to make use of the bathroom more convenient for them.

Source : 

https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/190924910938/helping-the-elderly-and-patients-with-cleaning

Aids to Help Elderly People Spending Prolonged Periods in Bed

Issues like arthritis, back pain, and joint stiffness can lead to difficulty in getting in and out of bed. As we get older and more toilet runs are required, it can become a painful and awkward exercise. Those recovering from an operation may find themselves in a similar position.

Mobility aids for the bedroom are becoming ever more popular. Ranging from devices to help you pull yourself up to a sitting position, to more substantial installations, there are plenty to choose from. Whether it’s turning over, just getting comfortable or ensuring adequate movement, there is equipment which may help.

At Essential Aids we’ve developed and refined our range of aids for the bedroom. Some are designed for people with specific disabilities, while others are inventive devices which improve comfort, if you find yourself spending longer than usual confined to bed.

Aids to help getting in and out of bed

Various physical conditions can make it tricky to raise oneself from lying flat to a sitting position. This might be down to a back problem, inflexibility or some other physical problem.

One of the simplest and indeed cheapest pieces of equipment at Essential Aids is the bed rope ladder, sometimes referred to as the ‘jacob’s ladder’. This is a short length of nylon rungs, one end of which attaches to the foot of the bed. The user is then able to pull it tight towards them and use the rungs to pull themselves upright.

Another item also made of nylon strapping is a leg lifter. It has a loop at one end which fits over the user’s foot. The other end is held in the user’s hand allowing them to pull it upwards, lifting the foot off the ground and the leg with it.

It is useful for people with a lack of mobility on one side to lift their bad leg up onto the bed, so they can follow it with their good one. Stroke survivors sometimes have immobility in certain parts of the body and this type of aid can be invaluable.

If you have a particularly high bed, you might use bath steps to make it easier to step down to the floor. They are available with legs or as flat ‘modules’ which lock together in order to create the required height.

Bed rails or bed support rails are more substantial aids for getting up from a sitting position or providing a balancing point when getting in or getting out of bed. Different models have various fixing methods, usually via clamps or straps. In the latter case, nylon strapping fits beneath the mattress and around the bed base.

Some types of rail, often described as cot sides, extend down the length of the bed and prevent someone rolling out of bed overnight. These are usually adjustable in length and sometimes in height. Most models fold or slide down out of the way so they don’t obstruct the person as they access the bed.

Other kinds of support rail are much shorter and protrude upwards in a U-shape above the height of the mattress. This provides a useful support point to help with balance as you get in or out of bed. They also provide something to lean on while getting dressed.

As with bed rope ladders, rails require a certain amount of upper body strength to use effectively. This is something to bear in mind if the rail is for a particularly frail person.

Another bedroom aid which requires a degree of upper body strength is a support which attach to the ceiling. This features a strap which hangs down and a small ‘trapeze’ style handle on the end. Using it, the person is then able to pull themselves up into a sitting position.

A floor-to-ceiling pole is another option. As the name suggests, these extend to the full height of the room. As they are permanent installations, it’s important to consider their positioning carefully before they are fitted.

Some involve a simple vertical pole, while others have an additional horizontal support bar. This swivels and can be locked into the most desirable position for the user.

As with all products designed to attach to floors, walls or ceilings, it is important that a qualified tradesman does the installation. They will have a good understanding of the surfaces and the type of fixings safest to use.

If you have a divan bed, essentialaids.com offers numerous rails which fit beneath the base and protrude upwards. Other designs have a section which slides between the bed base and mattress, using the weight of the latter to maintain position. If you are going away, there are travel versions which fold-up, making them easier to pack.

Sitting up comfortably is another consideration if you’re spending a lot of time in bed. While a combination of pillows may work, you might also consider a back rest or a foam wedge of some kind.

Essential Aids does a number of back rests for beds. These have an aluminium frame with a canvass section strung across it. There’s a simple catch mechanism which allows you to set the tilt to the angle of your choice.

A bed wedge works in a similar way. These are large triangular pieces of foam, usually with a cotton cover. These have the advantage of being softer to the touch and having more solid feeling than a back-rest with a frame. Their disadvantage is that they are not adjustable in terms of angle of support.

Using a rolling table while you’re in bed

Another useful aid if you’re spending long periods of time in bed, is an over bed table. These give access to all sorts of things you might need, which otherwise you might require assistance to reach. Most models have caster wheels fitted to the legs which roll beneath the bed. Almost all tables at Essential Aids are height adjustable, so you can set them to the desired level.

Features which you should look out for include a raised edge running around the table top. This prevents things like pens rolling off the surface. You might also prefer an over bed table which can be set at an angle. These are great for ipads screens, books, magazines and newspapers which you might want to keep open in front of you.

The table’s mechanism for height adjustment is another thing to think about. Some have push-button hydraulic controls, while others have a more basic a pin and clip set-up.

This type of equipment is also great if you need to have your meals in bed. Make sure you select one sturdy enough for this purpose and will not shake too much as you cut food. The table-tops vary in size and stability, so check the specification before making a choice.

Before selecting an over bed table, make sure you have enough space for it next to the bed, when it is pushed out of the way. If you’re using a divan, measure the clearance space of the gap at floor level. It is it too small for the wheels to fit, some models are available with legs which simply slide across the floor, requiring only a small clearance gap.

Are you at risk of pressure sores?

People spending a lot of time lying in bed with no or only partial ability to reposition themselves are at risk of pressure sores. Sometimes referred to as pressure ulcers, they are lesions to the skin which if untreated can worsen, leak fluid and cause pain.

Elderly people tend to be especially vulnerable because their skin can become fragile. This means it is more liable to break if sustained pressure is applied.

Essential Aids features a range of high quality pressure relief cushions suitable for the various grades of ulcer someone may have. Some extend the length of the bed, providing relief for someone lying down.

Other types of pressure relief cushion are more conventional, designed to be placed beneth the person’s posterior while they are in a sitting position.

It’s important to take advice from a medical professional about the specific type of pressure relief cushion which might be suitable. Foam versions are available, as well as gel filled and inflatable models, all of which have their advantages depending on your situation.

Smaller pads, usually made either rom foam or fleecy materials are great for protecting boney parts of the body. These areas can be especially prone to pressure sores so can benefit from preventative attention.

When using these types of protectors, make sure they do not create any additional pressure themselves. Again, a medical professional should be able to give you advice specific to your situation.

It’s good to talk!

Whether it’s you or someone you care for who might require extra equipment for the bedroom, it’s vital to have an open mind. At Essential Aids, we are lucky to have an ever expanding range of living aids for the bedroom, with lots of options to choose from.

Discussion with your GP or occupational therapist is a great starting point to get the right advice about aids which might be appropriate for you. They may recommend a piece of equipment you have never heard of, but which ultimately makes a huge difference to your daily routine.

Source:

https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/190906150818/aids-to-help-elderly-people-spending-prolonged

Your Buying Guide for Toilet Assistance Products

Losing one’s balance or strength because of a medical condition can make using the toilet more difficult. Whether it’s just being unsteady on one’s feet, or lacking the strength to get up and down from a sitting position, unforeseen challenges can arise.

In more severe situations, a loss of mobility may even make it difficult to make the journey to and from the bathroom.

While discussing personal toileting arrangements is not high on anyone’s list of fun activities, it is important to consider practical steps which can help. Many find the subject embarrassing and are often reluctant to seek help or advice.

As ever, the first stage is to recognize the problem so action can be taken to remedy it. Elderly people living alone are particularly vulnerable and not all have someone with whom to discuss private matters like using the toilet.

Council and NHS Support

If you are struggling with your toileting, we advise you to speak to your GP as a first port of call. They may refer you to a ‘continence advisor’: a specialist nurse who can assess your individual situation and suggest solutions.

You may also want to discuss things with an occupational therapist. These professionals offer advice on specific pieces of equipment which might help.

The Care Act 2014 means that anyone who appears to require support can request an assessment from their local authority. This is regardless of their financial income or wider financial situation. The council assessment includes looking at toileting and personal hygiene.

In the UK there is a formal responsibility on local councils and the NHS to support individuals to take steps to deal with poor health and its practical consequences at home.

Their initial assessment focuses on any difficulties you might be experiencing in caring for yourself. If you already have someone helping you, a further assessment considers what support that person might need to continue in their role.

Occupational therapists are used to guide people towards the type off equipment which might benefit them. They have practical experience and in-depth knowledge of items which can keep people independent in their own homes.

Here’s a run-down of some of the more commonly used assistive items which help with toileting:

Commodes

If you are struggling to make the trip to the bathroom, you might consider locating a commode chair in an easier to reach part of the house.

They are available with wooden or metal frames; most are height adjustable and can be mobile or freestanding. Some are foldable and collapse down for storage.

Most commodes have easy-wipe surfaces so they can be kept as clean as possible.

Wooden models tend to be of fixed height, while those with metal frames are usually adjustable. Some wooden commodes are attractively finished, making them discreet and looking much like regular furniture.

Almost all commodes have a pan which slides beneath the seat. It is usually easy to either side it out or lift it upwards to remove it. The pan itself needs emptying and thoroughly cleaning after use.

A chemical commode chair has a deeper pan which contains a liquid or gel disinfectant which reduces smells and destroys bacteria. These require emptying less frequently than standard models.

For those who might need to spend prolonged periods sitting on the commode, padded seats are available. Other models have armrests which drop-down out of the way for side transfers.

Seats which raise the height of the toilet

The process of sitting down to use the toilet is difficult for elderly people suffering with stiffness or a lack of joint mobility. It can be particularly difficult if you are tall.

One possible solution is to raise the height of the toilet itself. This can be done using a toilet plinth, which fits beneath the WC, but this quite a substantial installation.

Instead, most opt for a raised toilet seat, which fits on top of the existing loo. This raises the overall height of the seat up to six inches.

Fixing may be done via the standard holes for a toilet seat, or by clamps which fit to the ceramic bowl.

With standard toilet seats bearing around 15 or 16 inches from the floor, in many cases, this is simply too low, A. for comfort and B. to make it easy to stand up from.

Some units have built-in armrests which you can use to lower and raise yourself on and off the toilet.

More specialist models have special seat contours which allow for those with limited hip movement. These have ‘cutaway’ sections on one side or the other.

Other types of raised toilet seat have cutaway sections at the front. This allows the user easier access for personal hygiene tasks.

Toilet frames

Toilet frames, sometimes called toilet surrounds, fit around the toilet and provide a point of support when lowering or raising yourself. They are available with either fixed dimensions or with adjustments to set the height or width. The latter is ideal if you have limited space in which to fit the frame.

A toilet frame provides a hand hold on which to rest, transferring some of your weight to the upper body. Some models can be permanently fixed to the floor, making them more stable.

Some toilet frames have a raised toilet seat built-in.

Shower wheelchairs or wheeled commodes

Wheeled commodes are particularly useful, their wheels allowing a carer to transport someone between rooms or over the toilet. Some models are made to roll over a WC pedestal, while others are smaller and are for use with a conventional plastic pan fitted beneath the seat.

Self-propelled models allow someone to manoeuvre themselves into the bathroom and over the toilet. Many feature dropdown armrests which allow easier transfer from a bed or chair. Others are also suitable as wheelchair shower chairs, ideal for wet-room use.

Grab rails

Strategically placed support rails can make it a lot easier to steady yourself to use the loo or sit down and stand when using the toilet. They can be fitted to the wall as fixed units or they can fold down when in use and fold up against the wall when not required. The latter usually have a ‘U’ shaped design and are referred to as ‘drop-down toilet rails’.

Another type of rail for use next to the toilet is a vertical floor to ceiling pole. As with most support rails, it is useful if you have adequate upper body strength to pull yourself up from a sitting position by using it.

Personal hygiene aids

For various reasons some people have difficulty with personal hygiene tasks. These pieces of equipment may not be fun to consider, but can be invaluable in maintaining independence in a very personal area.

Bottom wipers are available which extend the person’s reach, allowing them to keep themselves clean when going to the toilet. The wipers are made of plastic and some fold down to a discreet size.

Portable bidet bowls provide another example of products which help keep oneself clean.

Padded toilet seat cushions

Some health conditions make it necessary to spend prolonged periods sitting on the toilet. This can lead to pressure on the thighs, restricting blood circulation and causing the feeling of ‘pins and needles’ in the legs.

Toilet seat cushions are available which pad the seat, making it more comfortable. These are usually filled with foam and distribute weight more evenly than standard plastic seats. Most attach via Velcro straps to keep them in place.

It is important to note that generally speaking, these cushions improve comfort rather than reducing pressure. Those at risk of pressure sores should discuss it with your GP or district nurse. They will be able to inform you of the options you have available.

Portable urine bottles

Weaker bladders are associated with many conditions affecting the elderly. Lots of people organise themselves so that they are never far away from a toilet.

Regardless, many like to carry with them a sealable urine receptacle with them in case they are caught short. The bottles have lids and a wide opening to reduce the chance of spillages.

Incontinence care

There is a wide range of incontinence care products available from Essential Aids. It includes many incontinence pads for the bed or other furniture, as well as discreet personal hygiene pads for use in underwear.

Pads are available in various degrees of absorbency, so you can find the correct one for your own level of incontinence. You can buy both disposable and reusable pads.

Essential Aids also supplies a range of bed pans for those who are unable to use a commode chair or reach the bathroom. In most cases you will need a carer to empty, clean and regularly disinfect it.

Awareness is key

The types of product touched on here are mostly for people who have a good degree of mobility but may just need a bit of equipment to help them day-to-day. As with most living aids, the key to making the most of them is awareness that they exist and an openness to using them.

Some people may have difficulty coming to terms with needing tools to carry out routine tasks like going to the toilet. Accepting that you may need some assistance with these tasks can be difficult but is an important first step towards solving the problem.

*Note on installations

Essential Aids strongly recommend that you use a qualified tradesman for any permanent fitting of items like grab rails or fixed toilet frames.

Source:https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/190870160588/your-buying-guide-for-toilet-assistance-products

Picking the Right Type of Wheelchair Ramps

Being mobile and able to do daily routine activities freely is something most people take for granted. However, various reasons like accidents, medical conditions or injuries may affect an individual's mobility. Hence, they may need some type of mobility equipment to help them. Out of several types of mobility equipment, wheelchair ramps are quite common and useful.

They make places more accessible for people who are wheelchair-bound to a certain extent. They may help you climb up slopes or stairs, get in and out of cars, etc. However, there are many types of wheelchair ramps available in the market. So, when you decide to buy a wheelchair ramp, making the right choice is critical. The reason is: the wrong choice might render your ramp of no avail.

When choosing a ramp, considering several points before you finally buy a ramp is important.

Let's have a look at them.

Factors to Consider While Selecting Wheelchair Ramps

1. Purpose

The first thing to consider is its primary purpose. Based on the purpose, you can choose one of the following main types of ramps.
 

• Solid - Available in different sizes, these ramps can be ideal for low steps and thresholds. They are suitable for both indoors and outdoors. Installation is easier than any other ramp as you need not unfold and arrange them. Their ease of transportation depends on their size. People may find them mostly in old age homes and hospitals where they help wheeled patients overcome small obstacles and kerbs.
   
• Modular -These kinds of ramps are partially portable. Installing or uninstalling them may take more time than the fully portable variants. They may be suitable for places where you cannot build permanent ramps.
    Let's say, you have shifted to a new town and the construction work of your own house is going on. For the time being, you have taken an apartment on a one-year lease. In this scenario, you can consider using a modular ramp as once you fix them you don't have to carry them anywhere for a year. After that, you can uninstall and shift the ramp to your own house.
  
• Threshold - As the name suggests, these ramps are ideal for low-rise obstacles like doorway thresholds. They are generally lightweight and easily portable. It takes hardly a few seconds to install or uninstall some of them like a fiberglass threshold ramp. Some of them also have raised lips to prevent the user from falling off the edge.
   
• Suitcase -This variant of ramps is one of the most common portable ramps available. These ramps fold in half and have a handle just like a suitcase. Their design makes their carrying easier.
    Setting them up takes hardly any time. Just place them where you need, and they are ready to use. They provide easy access over steps, kerbs, and other obstacles.
  
• Multi-Fold - These ramps are also portable and you can use them where suitcase ramps aren't long enough. They can fold down into a locked unit with a centre carry handle for easy transportation. They come in lengths even up to 10 feet.
   

2. Surface

Surface of a wheelchair ramp is an essential factor to consider. Ensure that the ramp you buy has a slip-resistant covering. This covering facilitates traction and may prevent you from slipping.

3. Weight Bearing Capacity

The weight-bearing capacity is another factor you should consider for the selection of a ramp. If you require a caretaker to propel a wheelchair, the weight-bearing limit of the ramp should be at least equal to the sum total of weights of the wheelchair, its user and caretaker. Ensuring that your ramp fulfils this condition will keep both user and caretaker safe.

The second thing is, powered wheelchairs are generally heavier than manual counterparts. So, the ramp you use for a powered wheelchair needs to have a higher weight-bearing capacity.

4. Storage and Transportation

To buy a wheelchair ramp, you also need to consider where you'll store it after use. Generally, some ramps are foldable and easily storable. If you are choosing a non-folding ramp, it will take more storage room than a folding ramp.

Similarly, a folding ramp folds up easily to make its transportation easier than a non-folding ramp.

So, if you have to carry ramps frequently, you can consider a folding ramp over a non-folding one. If you don't need to move ramps often and want it fixed for domestic uses, you can opt for a non-folding ramp.

To Wrap Up

To select and buy a wheelchair ramp can sometimes be tricky due to umpteen options. Nevertheless, keeping your purpose and other important factors in mind will let you make the right choice of a wheelchair ramp easily.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/190803576463/picking-the-right-type-of-wheelchair-ramps

Top 5 Pieces of Equipment to Safely Get In and Out of the Bath

The ability to keep yourself clean is one of the basics of maintaining independence in old age. However, many physical conditions associated with growing older bring new challenges in the bathroom.

Enjoying a soak in a hot bath is one of life’s great pleasures. But once in the water, many elderly people may have the thought: how am I going to get out again?!

Losing strength, balance or flexibility may make the previously simple process of using the bath more complicated. While some may be lucky enough to have a walk-in shower cubicle and sturdy shower chair, others do not have this option.

Luckily there are practical things you can do to make taking a bath a whole lot easier. Trying some of the wide range of bathing aids available might be a first step. Or you might consider making alterations to the bathroom itself.

Here we’ll run through our top five products to help get in and out of the bath.

1. Support Rails

These are among the most straightforward aids to assist balance by providing something to hold on to while climbing in and out of the bath. Rails are available in various lengths, so you should find something to suit your requirement. Most people choose designs complementing their bathroom’s décor. Once in place, they are usually unobtrusive.

Some bathroom rails have a smooth gripping surface, while others have ridges or textured patterns. This may make your hands less likely to slip when holding them. This type of rail is great for wet rooms.

While most rails are straight, some have angled designs. There are also support rails which rather than fixing to the wall, clamp to the side of the bath.

Many of this type are like upside-down ‘U’ rails. The curved section protrudes above the side of the bath, providing a solid point of support when climbing in when pulling oneself out.

Top Tip

Before fixing rails to the wall, use tape to mark out potential positions before enacting the process of getting in and out of a dry bath. Use the tape to indicate exactly where you would like the rails to eventually be, along with the length of rail you might need. Sometimes being in the bath gives you a different perspective than standing by its side.

For wall rails, it is important that they are fitted by a qualified tradesman. They will investigate the surfaces and use the appropriate fixings to make sure the rail can be used safely.

2. Bath Steps

Some people have difficulty lifting their legs over the side of the bath as they attempt to get in. Bath steps provide an effective means of making it easier to climb over the external wall of the bath.

Some types have aluminium legs and are available in various heights. These tend to have rubber or plastic feet, preventing them slipping on tiled surfaces. Others are modular in design and can be stacked to achieve the height required. The component parts lock together, ensuring they don’t come apart while in use.

Most bath steps are relatively lightweight and can be moved out of the way when not in use. It is important to remember that steps might not be appropriate for people with impaired balance, especially if a support rail is not within easy reach.

Almost all bath steps have non-slip surfaces where they contact the sole of your feet. This reduces the chance of slipping.

Top Tip

Ensure that you are balanced when using a bath step. These products do not typically fix permanently to the floor, so there is some potential for them to move if you do not take care. Using them in combination with a support rail is a good idea.

3. Bath Seats

Similar to bath steps outside the bath, a bath seat effectively raises the level of the floor inside it. This reduces the user’s distance of travel to get in and out. They are much lower than a standard shower chair and have a smaller footprint.

Commonly fitted with suction feet, they are available in various heights. Most have non-slip surfaces for the seat itself.

While most models sit on the floor of the bath, some ‘wedge’ or ‘hang’ across it. These push outwards on the walls of the bath to secure the seat, which is suspended above the bath’s floor.

It is important to note that this design applies some pressure to the bathtub and is usually only suitable for strong, metal baths.

Suspended versions hang down inside the bath, usually resting on the rim on either side. These can usually be adjusted to fit different sized bathtubs. The part of the frame contacting the edge of the bath will be coated in non-slip material, ensuring it grips effectively. This should also prevent damage to the bath itself.

Many types of suspended bath seats have built-in backrests. This provides a little more security and comfort and also makes them practical shower seats for elderly people as they offer excellent support. Having a backrest means it’s difficult to use this type of seat with a bath board, as the back support will usually be higher than the bath’s walls.

Top Tip

For freestanding models, make sure you know the dimensions of the available space for the footprint of the bath seat. Their dimensions vary and some bathtubs are too narrow to accommodate them.

4. Bath Boards

A bath board is a classic piece of equipment making it easier to access the bath by providing a solid ‘bridge’ across it. Available in various widths, you can find one which fits most sizes of bathtub.

They usually secure via outward facing clamps located at either end beneath the sitting surface. These lock in place, creating a stable platform on which to sit. Other more substantial boards may require screwing into the wall.

Some models feature handles which add to safety by providing something to hold on to as you get on and off the board. The sitting surface itself is usually perforated and has a textured surface. This helps water drain and makes it less slippery.

Remember, sitting on a bath board means your body will be above the water with your feet submerged in the water below.

Bath boards can also work as effective shower seats for elderly people. If you have a shower in the bath, you can use the board to sit on for its duration.

Top Tip

Using a bath board along with a bath seat often makes sense. With the board in place, you can lower yourself on to the lower bath seat when getting in and repeating the process in reverse around when getting out. This gives you support and improves safety through the process.

The technique involves first sitting in the middle of the board, with your knees bent and your feet dangling outside the bath. You can swing your legs over the side and into the bathtub.

Now, with your feet in the bath and your hands taking most of your weight on either side, you can lower yourself onto the bath seat below. Once you have finished washing, you can repeat the process in reverse.

It is worth bearing in mind that this requires a fair degree of upper body strength, so may be unsuitable for particularly frail individuals.

5. Leg Lifters

This aid for independence, like all the best inventions, has beauty in its simplicity. It is essentially a nylon strap, one end of which is held in the hand while a loose loop at the other fits around one foot.

When it is pulled upwards, the leg lifts. It is often used as a dressing aid or to help someone get into bed, but it is also fantastically helpful for getting into the bath. It is a practical tool enabling you to lift your bad leg into the bath without fuss.

A leg lifter is ideal for those have lost mobility in one leg, or hip, for example. Even if you simply struggle to bend your knee, this could be an invaluable piece of kit!

Top Tip

This equipment used is highly effective when used in combination with a bath board. Sit on the board and swing your good leg into the bath. Then use the leg lifter to take the weight of your bad leg and swing that over the side of the bath to join the first one.

Other Possibilities

As well as the suggestions above, there are more substantial pieces of equipment you might consider. Some of these require assistance from a carer, so bear that in mind.

Items like bath lifts, bath transfer benches, a swiveling shower chair or inflatable bath cushions are also available and these all assist the process of getting in and out of the bath. We’ll deal with these in more details in another blog post. Shower seats for elderly people are also available in various styles – again we will return to the options available in a future post.

Source :  https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/190748975068/top-5-pieces-of-equipment-to-safely-get-in-and-out