HOW TO MAKE GETTING ON AND OFF A TOILET EASIER
To make it easier to get onto or off of a toilet, remember to assess the position of your loved one when seated. For example, suppose that person seated appears with their knees higher than their hips. In that case, they will likely have difficulty rising off of that surface, whereas if their hips are slightly higher than their knees, it will be much easier and less physically demanding for a person to come from sitting to stand. The following options can increase the toilet seat height to make it easier for sit to stand and increase independence.
Toilet transfers: For toilet transfers, there are many options to choose from but no matter what you choose, ensure that it is stable, firmly attached and that it does not move once it is in place.
A common option that is very safe and multipurpose called a three-in-one commode, as it functions in three different locations and is portable.
- Use it next to the bedside with a bucket, and a person only needs to complete a stand pivot transfer from bed to the commode and back with very little ambulation involved.
- Use it over a standard toilet. Take the bucket out replace it with the splash guard (which looks like a bucket with a hole at the bottom). Place the entire frame over the existing toilet by lifting the current toilet seat and placing the frame over the toilet. This allows a person to use the arms similar to the arms of a chair to assist in coming to stand and sit and increase the seat height of the toilet if needed.
- Use it, if the tub or shower can safely accommodate the three-in-one commode with the bucket and splash guard removed, and if it is stable on the tub or shower floor, it can be used as a shower chair to take rest breaks or remain seated while bathing.
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NOTE: If you are unable to afford these items such as a tub bench or bed side commode, you may try looking at thrift stores as these are commonly available for around $25, and some health care insurance will cover the bedside commode if your loved one's doctor provides a prescription for it. Just be sure to sanitize it and that all parts including the legs and rubber footing are in good working order.
Other options can include a toilet seat riser with or without handles to elevate the seat height. These types of devices must be maintained checked to ensure they stay attached to the toilet.
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