Transfer Shower Benches

Statistics show that the risk of falls is higher in the shower. Transfer shower benches increase patient safety.

The period of time when a person is attempting to enter or exit the tub or shower is one of the most vulnerable. Stepping over the side can feel treacherous, and with good reason: it’s very easy to slip or fall. Many patients attempt to circumvent this risk with canes, walkers, and wheelchairs, but these mobility aids simply aren’t designed to shoulder the load. Transfer shower benches are far safer and easier to use.

Falls and Seniors

Nearly one third of all seniors in America experience a slip and fall accident each year. This risk is increased when getting in or out of a slippery shower, where slippery surfaces can make standing securely extremely difficult. The chance for a serious slip and fall accident or extreme injury increases exponentially upon transfer into the shower or tub. Unfortunately, this does sometimes lead people who are mobility challenged to avoid the shower and bathtub out of fear. To alleviate these fears, we recommend installing a transfer shower bench. By installing a stable, non-slip surface that eases the transition period from one place to another, patients can feel confident about bathtime rather than viewing it as a stressor or fall risk.

Why Choose a Transfer Shower Bench

A transfer shower bench offers significant advantages over wheelchairs, canes, and even shower chairs when compared to other options for showering safely. While a shower chair, for example, provides a sturdy, stable and non-slip place for a senior to rest comfortably during the shower, it doesn’t address the increased risk that takes place when entering the bathtub. Furthermore, using a shower chair alone still demands a certain amount of mobility, and that just isn’t possible for every patient.

Peace of Mind

Even elderly patients who are sure and steady on their feet can benefit from a transfer shower bench in the bathroom. As patients age, bone density decreases and healing becomes impaired, so even a single minor fall can increase the risk of a broken bone, hip, or back.

The problem with relying on canes and wheelchairs is that they don’t transfer into the shower with the patient, so the patient experiences a brief moment in which they are relatively unsupported.

Transfer shower benches offer more space to sit securely before shifting into the tub and also keep the patient supported throughout the transfer itself. That provides an effective and stable bridge from outside the tub into the inside and back in again.

Measuring for Your Transfer Shower Bench

In order to meet the needs of older people, transfer shower benches must accommodate a variety of needs. That’s why most brands offer benches in multiple lengths.

Standard benches measure approximately 15 inches across, providing just enough space for one patient to sit. For big and tall patients, an extra-wide bench may be preferred.

One of the biggest advantages of using a transfer shower bench is that its length extends over the side of the tub. One set of legs rests inside the tub and the other outside of it. If you have a particularly large bathtub or jacuzzi tub, a specially-fitted or custom-sized bench may be a better choice.

All patients should factor in weight capacity. Standard transfer shower benches can accommodate up to 250 lbs. Patients who are above this weight may need a more robust heavy-duty bench. Never exceed the weight capacity on your bench–doing so will significantly increase the risk of falls.

What to Look for in a Transfer Shower Bench

Durability – Seek out devices made with lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum, stainless steel, hard plastic, or waterproof, hypoallergenic silicone. These materials provide the best durability against water-related degeneration and erosion.

Non-Slip Feet – Benches should be equipped with oversized non-slip feet to prevent slipping and accidents during the transfer process. Feet made of non-slip rubber or hard plastic are best, though some benches may utilize other materials.

Easier Entry and Exits – For seniors and patients who are disabled, select transfer shower benches with a sliding feature. This feature is especially helpful as it reduces the need for manual manipulation or overexertion of the upper body and arms.

Straps and Buckles – Safety straps and buckles are a wise addition for patients with dementia or very young patients. Use them to prevent falls, but never leave patients unattended in the bath or shower if they are disabled enough to need them.

Advanced Features – For a more advanced experience, choose a bench with innovative features such as a padded seat, adjustable bench height, suction cup feet or armrests that can be interchanged to accommodate placement on the right or the left. These features boost comfort and maximize independence, too.