A Guide to Shower and Bathing Equipment: Choosing the Right Support for Safety and Independence

Sinead Duffin
6 days ago
2 min read

Maintaining safety and independence in the bathroom is a key priority for many individuals, particularly those with reduced mobility, balance concerns, or changing health needs. The right shower and bathing equipment can significantly reduce the risk of falls while improving comfort and confidence during daily routines.

At Elevate Health, our occupational therapists regularly assess and prescribe a range of assistive bathroom equipment tailored to each individual. Below is a guide to some of the most commonly recommended options.

Shower stools: compact support for smaller spaces

Shower stools provide stable seated support while allowing users to safely enter and exit the shower. Their compact design makes them ideal for bathrooms with limited space or for individuals who require minimal assistance.

They are best suited for users who:

Have mild balance concerns
Can sit independently
Require a simple, space-saving solution

Shower chairs: increased stability and support

Shower chairs offer greater stability and postural support compared to stools. Many models include backrests and armrests, providing additional safety for users who need more assistance while showering.

They are ideal for individuals who:

Require more support when seated
Experience fatigue or reduced endurance
Benefit from arm support during transfers

Bath boards: simple solutions for bath access

Bath boards are positioned across the edges of a bathtub, creating a stable surface to sit on during transfers. They assist users in getting into and out of the bath safely without needing to step over the edge while standing.

Most designs include:

Non-slip surfaces
Rubber stoppers or suction cups
Adjustable fittings for added security

Bath transfer benches: safer transfers into the bath

A bath transfer bench extends across the bathtub, with one side positioned outside and the other inside. Users can sit on the outer edge and safely swing their legs over the bath, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

These are particularly beneficial for individuals who:

Cannot safely step into a bath
Require seated transfers
Need additional stability during movement

Shower commode chairs: multi-functional support

Shower commode chairs are versatile, wheeled chairs designed for use in both the shower and over the toilet. They feature an open seat and are available in a range of models, including self-propelled and tilt-in-space options.

They are suitable for individuals who:

Require full support during personal care
Have significant mobility limitations
Need a combined shower and toileting solution

Finding the right equipment for your needs

Choosing the right bathroom assistive equipment depends on a range of factors, including mobility, strength, home environment, and personal goals. An occupational therapy assessment ensures that recommendations are both safe and tailored to the individual.

At Elevate Health, we provide in-home occupational therapy assessments and equipment prescriptions across Perth, helping individuals maintain independence and safety in their daily routines.

If you think any of this equipment could benefit you or a loved one, you can get started by heading to our referrals page and completing our online referral form.