Gerontologic Environmental Modifications >> Injury Prevention



	U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
		Upholstered Furniture Safety Alert
		Tap Water Scalds
		Aluminum Cookware Can Melt and Cause Severe Burns
		Electrical Receptacle Outlets
		Extension Cords Fact Sheet
		WARNING! Fire Hazard with Nightlights
		Carbon Monoxide Detectors Can Save Lives

	Bathing safety equipment
		Choosing the right bath seat
		Handheld showerheads
		Grab Bars
		Grab Bar Safety Meeting Notes
		Grab Bar Testing Data
		Bath Mats
		Resource list

Bathing Safety Equipment

	Bath Stools & Benches
	Bath Chairs
	Transfer Benches

Bath Stools & Benches

A round bath stool or rectangular bench is appropriate for persons who have good sitting balance skills and back strength. Bath stools and benches are available in a variety of sizes. A bench with a concave surface is generally more comfortable to sit on than a small round stool.


	18' diameter stool with drainage holes and side hand grips. Photo Courtesy of Rubbermaid Healthcare Products

For narrow tubs, the choice will be more limited. A 13" size will fit into most narrow tubs, but due to its small diameter, it is not appropriate for large-sized individuals. Also, the smaller size seats do not have drainage holes, which, when wet, may be too slippery for frail adults.

Bath stools and benches in colors, available by mail order, are especially helpful if a person has low vision. A royal blue seat against a white bathtub is easier to see than a white seat against a white background.

Bath benches in white are available at most local home health stores and through mail older catalogs.

Models are available that will support up to 500 lbs. Cost is $30- $80.


Rectangular bench, 17" wide at base, with concave seat, drainage holes, and side hand grips. Photo courtesy of Gold Violin Inc.		13" diameter stool Photo courtesy of We Care Pharmacy


	Back to Top

Questions to ask before purchasing a bath stool or bench:

Do you need adjustable height legs so you can change the seat height if necessary?

Do you need to purchase suction cups and replace the rubber tips if additional stability is needed?

Is the seat size and frame construction appropriate for your weight? Most standard models support up to 250 lbs.; "bariatric" model are available that can support up to 500 lbs.

Would you benefit from built-in side handgrips to improve balance and leverage? Does the seat have drainage areas to reduce slipperiness?

Would you benefit from a seat with a concave surface (slight flare upwards at sides) for increased sitting comfort?

Is it difficult for you to sit upright? If so, consider a bath chair with a back or a transfer bench.