There is a range of equipment available to help maintain your independence in completing personal hygiene tasks. From daily living aids and perching stools to grab rails and adaptations there are a lot of options available to you.
Equipment can be privately purchased from a wide range of retailers both online and on the high street. If you feel that you need further information or advice please call Adult Social Care on 0113 2224401 to make a referral. Someone will call you back to discuss the difficulties you are having and if necessary, arrange for an assessment when equipment may be provided to you, from Leeds Equipment Service, free of charge.
Bath Seats and Boards
Getting in and out of the bath safely can be a concern but there are a number of options available to help you maintain your independence.
Bath and Shower Boards
Bath and shower boards are a plastic or wooden board which span the width of the bath, resting on the bath rim and secured by adjustable brackets. Bath boards come in different widths and fit across the top of your bath to give you a place to sit whilst you are bathing or showering, or in conjunction with a bath seat.
Bath seats
Bath seats are a plastic stool style seat, which are secured to a bath by rubber suckered feet. Bath seats can help people who have difficulty moving from he bottom of the bath and can be used in conjunction with a bath board and bath rails.
Swivel Bather
A swivel bather is a white plastic seat that can rotate and lock into positions to facilitate movement over the bath side. The seat is fixed to a metal frame that rests securely on the rim of the bath and comes with back and arm rests to provide extra support.
Benefits
Makes it easier to lower/raise yourself into or out of the bath
Available in a variety of widths, lengths and weight limits
Things to consider
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure they are fitted securely.
The person using bath and shower boards and seats needs to be able to step or lift their legs over the side of the bath.
The person using these products needs to be able to lift themselves from the seat to the board.
Due to the size/shape/mouldings of some baths, products may not fit correctly. It is important to check this if you purchase one.