Shower Unit Elderly
From LoveToKnow Seniors
Shower units for the elderly lets older individuals take back some of their independence by being able to bathe on their own. For most people, showering is a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, but for the elderly it can be a scary and dangerous one.
Risks for the Elderly
People that are elderly or disabled put themselves at risk every time they enter into a shower or bathtub. Many standalone models do not have handrails, and the floor is not made out of slip-proof material. Lifting a leg over the side of a bathtub puts an individual at risk for losing balance and falling, causing serious injury.
Many older people believe their time for taking showers or baths alone is gone, which can be embarrassing and frustrating. The good news is that there are shower units for the elderly that provide a safe and convenient way to enjoy showering independently again.
Learning about Shower Units for the Elderly
With a specialized shower unit, an individual can walk in without having to step up or over any borders, because this type uses the bathroom floor as part of the unit. You simply walk into the area, stand or sit, and turns on the water. The knobs are large and easy to turn, so there's not a struggle to turn the water to a desired temperature. Many of these units also come with a detachable hose so body parts can be reached easily.
Many additional accessories are available if you would like added protection. Handrails are necessary in any shower unit for the elderly. This helps people get around easily and add extra security. There are also specially designed seats so an individual can sit, relax, and enjoy time alone. The seat also provides a safe and useful place for people that use wheelchairs. Finally, a place for soap, which is high enough so the person does not have to bend down low, is a great safety and convenience feature.
Finding Units Online
This large model with back and side walls makes it easy to move around and wheelchair accessible. It includes a seat, handrails, and soap dish. This model is not made of tile, making it easy to clean.
At this site, you can find a great deal of information on accessibility for people with disabilities. The site has some corner units, as well as replacements for your old model. Many of them have the seat, handrails, and detachable hose.
Bathtubs for the Elderly
If you'd rather have a bath to soak in, you can invest in a bathtub with door feature. This model pictured here, allows people the ability to lift their leg and body up approximately four inches versus 12 inches or more in traditional baths. Once inside, you can can sit down and fill the tub after closing the secure tub door.
The Cost
A specialized shower unit can be expensive, depending on the model, and there may be some additional cost involved depending on the current bathroom. The simplest unit runs about $1,200, and you can expect to pay $5,000 or more for one with all of the accessories. Since many bathrooms are not equipped for one of these units nor are they large enough, you may have to invest in a total bathroom remodel.
Worth Your Investment
You may be reconsidering one of these shower units after realizing how much it will cost. However, you might want to evaluate some other factors before you decide against it.
The cost of a personal care worker can be high, especially if you need one for many years. It can also be a time-consuming and laborious task to bathe an elder yourself. Purchase something that will help him or her-or you-ndependent continue to have the pleasure of a nice relaxing bath or shower independently.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 2,202 times. This page was last modified 11:25, 17 July 2008.
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