What bathroom aids are recommended for elderly people to prevent falls?

The bathroom is one of the highest-risk areas in the home for falls among older people. The most commonly recommended aids to reduce this risk include grab rails or safety rails mounted near the toilet, bath, and shower; a shower chair or stool to allow seated bathing; a non-slip mat on wet surfaces; and a raised toilet seat or over-toilet frame to make sitting down and standing up safer and easier. An occupational therapist can conduct a formal home assessment and recommend specific products suited to the individual’s needs, living environment, and functional ability.

Can I purchase bathroom aids through the NDIS?

Yes. Many bathroom and toilet aids are fundable under an NDIS plan, typically under the Assistive Technology support category. The specific products that can be funded, and the level of funding available, depend on the individual’s plan, their assessed support needs, and whether the item is considered reasonable and necessary. Safety and Mobility is a registered NDIS provider and can supply bathroom aids to NDIS participants, provide quotes for plan managers and support coordinators, and assist in identifying appropriate products.

What is the difference between a shower chair, a shower stool, and a mobile shower commode?

A shower stool is a simple backless seat designed for users who need some support while showering but can maintain their own balance. A shower chair has a back rest and often armrests, providing more postural support for users with reduced trunk stability or greater assistance needs. A mobile shower commode is a wheeled chair with a commode opening underneath, designed for clients who need to be wheeled to and from the bathroom and can be used directly over a toilet or in a shower. The right choice depends on the individual’s level of mobility, balance, and the degree of carer assistance required.

Are there bathroom aids suitable for people who cannot step into a bath?

Yes. For people who find it difficult or unsafe to step over the side of a bath, bath transfer benches and bathboards are practical solutions. A bath transfer bench straddles the side of the bath, allowing the user to sit on the bench outside the bath and slide across into the tub without needing to step in. A bathboard sits across the top of the bath and provides a stable seated surface so the user can bathe in a seated position without submerging.

What should I look for when choosing a grab rail or toilet safety rail?

The key factors to consider are the installation type, the weight rating of the rail, the positioning, and the material and finish. Wall-mounted rails provide the most secure support and are best for permanent installations, while freestanding toilet frames suit rental properties or temporary needs. Stainless steel or powder-coated rails are durable and easy to clean. For wall-mounted grab rails, professional installation into wall studs is strongly recommended to ensure the rail can bear the required load.