Durable medical equipment can make everyday life around the house simpler and more comfortable for seniors. There are a plethora of assistive items for in-home care on the market nowadays to choose from, and it can be difficult to decide which is best for your situation. At Live Well at Home by Eskaton, we want to make available to you some insider resources for purchasing and using a few of the more popular pieces of home care equipment.
Commodes
A commode can be used in place of both an elevated toilet seat and a toilet safety frame and offers the additional advantage of being mobile, so can be used separately at a bedside as well.
Tips for purchase:
- Search for one with non-removable armrests and rubber tips on the legs rather than wheels, and check for durability.
- Search for a commode that incorporates both a pail (with lid) and a sleeve (for use over the toilet).
Rollators
A rollator is a four-wheeled walker that contains brakes, a seat, and a basket. These work effectively both indoors and outdoors, provide a seat when the user needs a rest, and the basket enables users to carry objects with them, keeping their hands free to work the rollator.
Tips for purchase:
- Bigger wheels are best, as they roll easier on uneven surfaces and are usually more steady.
- Look for a light-weight, foldaway version so that it can fit in the trunk of a vehicle.
- Test out the hand brakes before purchase to make certain that they are not stiff or hard to utilize.
- Search for a rollator with a cushioned seat for comfort.
- Versions that enable effortless access to the basket/bag while in the normal walking position are preferable.
Shower bench vs. shower board
A shower bench is beneficial for seniors who feel insecure when raising their legs over the side of the bathtub and significantly lowers the risk of falls when getting in and out of the bathtub.
The main benefits of shower benches over shower boards are that they have backrests and are height adjustable. Having a higher surface makes getting up from a seated position simpler and backrests offer more support to older adults who fatigue more easily. Shower boards can also be difficult to fit correctly to a bathtub.
Tips for purchase:
- Search for a shower bench that has a handle and backrest that can be adjusted to accommodate various tubs.
- Make certain to also purchase a quality hand held sprayer that connects to the faucet and is user-friendly.
For additional tips and information on home care equipment, feel free to contact the in-home care Sacramento professionals at Live Well at Home, at 916-459-3220 or contact us online by clicking here.