Using a Bath Lift Safely

Using a Bath Lift Safely

Bath lifts are designed to aid people with mobility restrictions in enjoying a bath. They are installed on the side of the bathtub, and the user simply sits in the seat and is lowered into the tub. When the bath is finished, the seat then returns the user to the side of the tub.

These are wonderful devices for people who can not step into or out of a bathtub, however, knowing exactly which one you need can mean the difference between a nice bath, and a possibly dangerous situation.

A powered bath lift can be used without any help from outside caregivers. The user simply sits in the seat, which is situation outside the tub, and is “swiveled” into the tub and then lowered into the water. Once again, when the bath is complete, the user is raised out of the water, and again returned to the side of the tub above the floor. This is the best choice for someone with serious mobility restrictions.

Other types of bath lifts, however, can be used by people with less restriction in movement, but may prove harmful to those who can not support any weight on their legs. There are models that simply sit in the tub and then lower the user to the water. If someone who has no, or little, use of their legs were to use one of these lifts, they would have trouble getting up from the seat, and could very easily fall and hurt themselves.

When choosing the proper bath lift, it is imperative that you select the model that suits your needs individually. Choosing the wrong model could be disastrous. For instance, air pressure lifts normally have no back support. They would be very unstable for someone with sever balance difficulties.

Choosing the correct bath lift is very important for the safety and well being of the user. Choosing a lift simply based on price is not a recommended practice. Find out before you buy the lift exactly what the weight restrictions are, and how it works. You will need to know if it swivels to return you to the side of the tub, particularly if you have trouble stepping over the tub. Doing some research into the many models available is strongly encouraged before you purchase. Bath lifts are designed for safety and enjoyment, but if you choose the wrong one, then the design is useless. Make sure that you know exactly which lift you need to prevent any accidents, and allow yourself the freedom and enjoyment of a bath.