A small bathroom can represent a challenge for users with limited mobility and who suffer from seizures. This is certainly the case for this case study, where the user is a 19-year-old female who is autistic and suffers from anxiety and regular seizures. Her condition made using their small bathroom unsafe and unsuitable. Instead, the user was using a basic commode in the bedroom, which her mum would have to stand in front of to prevent her falling off if should she suffer a seizure while using it.
Bathing can prove tricky if you have accessibility issues. Being able to take care of your personal hygiene independently or with the help of a carer in your own home can be key to living a fulfilling life. Understandably, the client wanted to regain her independence and Wealden Rehab recommended the RAZ ART shower chair to help her achieve this goal.
Why the RAZ ART shower chair is the perfect fit for small bathrooms
The RAZ ART (Attendant Rotational Tilt) is a mobile shower commode chair that has a unique, orbital 40-degree tilt system with pressure reduction and increased comfort for the user. The unique design of the aluminium frame allows for two height range adjustments without tools, and with a centre of gravity tilt mechanism, tilting a patient requires little effort and no gas struts.
We had to make some adjustments to the shower chair and include a few accessories to make it a perfect fit for the user and optimise the benefits it would offer her. This included:
- Adjusting the armrest and seat height to navigate the sink in the bathroom correctly and fit over the toilet.
- A padded headrest to protect the users head and prevent injury during a seizure.
- A chest harness and lap belt for additional safety and to keep the user in the chair should they have a seizure while using it.
- Reducing the headrest stem by 6.5” so that the chair can fit over the toilet correctly.
One safe, happy user
The RAZ-ART chair proved to be the perfect profile to fit into the user’s small-sized bathroom and work with the existing toilet. The tilt-in-space feature provided additional safety for the client in the event that they have a seizure while in the chair. The user is now able to use the bathroom independently, giving her the privacy and dignity that she craved, and her mum has the peace of mind that her daughter can use the bathroom safely without her support.
Adjustability is key to meeting the needs of the provider and to equipment cost savings. Learn more about the benefits of equipment adjustability, especially in shower chairs, by reading our informative blog, Healthcare equipment that stands the test of time.
Our equipment specialists regularly carry out FREE product assessments across the UK. Find out more by calling 01634 813388 or book your product assessment online now.
