Turtle Bath Support
Background
We were approached to assist a young child living with CHARGE syndrome, tracheomalacia, laryngomalacia, and additional complex medical needs. Although mobile, the child is unsteady and experiences high anxiety around bathing. She lives with her parents, who had been supporting her directly in the bath due to a lack of suitable equipment.
Requirements
- A reclining bath support for safe hair washing around a tracheostomy
- A design that promotes comfort and reduces anxiety
- Compatibility with a very narrow bath (36 cm wide)
- A solution the child could feel in control of and accept voluntarily
Challenges
- The narrow width of the bath limited available equipment options
- Previous supports had been rejected or were physically unsuitable
- The need for a supportive seat that provides both physical security and emotional reassurance
Solution
Adam, Product Advisor from Wealden Rehab, collaborated with the child’s parents and OT to trial several products in the home. Multiple sizes of the Turtle bath support and the Robby were tested both in the bath and with the child, to determine fit and support level.
During the demonstration, the child climbed onto the Turtle bath support herself and independently secured the Velcro straps — a strong indicator of comfort and acceptance. According to her mother, this was the first product the child had shown any interest in using.
Although the Turtle’s central support could not rest fully on the base of the narrow bath, it remained secure and safe. Following installation, the child now enjoys bath time for the first time — she is now relaxed, supported, and feels safe during this daily routine.
To learn more about our product assessments, available across the UK, call us on 01634 813388 or book your product assessment online today.