Using the bathroom as a disabled person means that one should go the extra mile in order to be able to do certain very personal daily necessities with independence and dignity. In order to facilitate this routine in a way that will make seeking little to no help at all possible, there are a lot of toilet aids and equipment available. However, it is strongly advisable to discuss your specific difficulties with a professional so that you can choose the proper types that can help you depending on your condition. Here is a list of some of the most commonly used types of toilet aids.
Sitting Down and Getting Up
It is a very difficult task to get on or off the toilet seat due to problems associated with arthritis in the joints or muscle weakness. Therefore, toilet frames are very helpful toilet aids as they are placed around the toilet and used to support the disabled person when lowering down to the toilet seat or when rising back up again. These are seats attached to a metal frame that surrounds the toilet and the height usually can be adjusted. Also, they can either be fixed to the floor or freestanding and made with non-slip feet.
Another type is the raised toilet seat which can be helpful in situations when one has difficulties to lift themselves up. It can provide a rise of 5 cm, 10cm or 15cm, depending on the model. Additionally, the toilet seat can be attached to the toilet bowl or it can be fitted with the standard toilet seat fixing. The seats are usually padded so that extra comfort is provided.
Personal Cleansing
If it is possible, personal cleansing should be done individually and independently. Therefore, the toilet roll holder should be placed within close reach. A dispenser with packs of separate leaf paper would be of huge help for people who can use only one hand. So, one of these toilet aids are the bottom wipers which are long-handled devices used with toilet paper. Some of them can be folded.
Next, the portable bidet bowls are plastic bowls that fit over the toilet seat. With a dish at the front to hold the soap and a plug hole at the back to empty the used water into the toilet pan, they are a very sought-after choice for personal cleansing.
Portable Receptacles
These toilet aids can be used by people who have mobility difficulties and are an easier way to empty their bladders in a simple way. The portable urinals are available for both men and women. Some of the types can be sealed, thrown away or contain crystals that transform the urine into a gel and are usually used for travelling. Another type is the bedpans which are used by people who can’t or shouldn’t be moved out of bed for medical reasons.
Finally, what is important to know and take into consideration before purchasing a toilet aid is the safety factor. In order to stay safe, you should take your time and avoid rushing. Also, be sure not to place a toilet pedestal mat as it can make you trip and fall. In order to hold on to something, never use the toilet roll holder or the washbasin, but instead, use the grab rails. Make sure everything you need is within your reach. And finally, don’t lock the door as you might need assistance.