Having a bath lift can make your loved one feel more secure when she’s in the tub and it can help you to feel more at ease, too. They’re easy to use and they ensure your loved one doesn’t get stuck in her bath.
What Is a Bath Lift?
A bath lift is a type of chair that fits directly into your loved one’s tub. When your loved one is fully seated in the bath lift, you or she can use the controls to lower her into the tub. After her bath, the controls allow you or your loved one to lift her back out of the water and safely step out of the tub. There are two major kinds of bath lifts. One is battery operated while the other uses the water in the tub to raise and lower.
Good Reasons to Have a Bath Lift
If your elderly loved one enjoys taking baths still but doesn’t feel safe in the tub, a bath lift could make a big difference for her. A loved one who has balance issues, for example, might have a difficult time getting into and out of the tub safely. They’re also an excellent option if your loved one is worried that she might become stuck in her tub.
Reasons to Potentially Avoid a Bath Lift
Loved ones who don’t enjoy being in the tub probably won’t get as much out of a bath lift as you might think. Some loved ones don’t feel safe in a tub of water at all, even if they’re not having trouble with balance or strength. Also, if your loved one has lost a good bit of her strength, she may find sitting in a bath lift in the tub uncomfortable if she’s not able to sit up straight on her own.
Check the Bath Lift Regularly to Make Sure it’s Working Properly
As with any mechanical devices that your loved one uses regularly, it’s a good idea to make sure that they’re properly functioning. Make this a part of your regular safety checks around the house. If you spot any issues or the bath lift isn’t working the way it normally does, don’t use it with your loved one.
If you’re still not sure whether your loved one might benefit from a bath lift, talk to her doctor and to her home care providers. They can help you to weigh the pros and the cons.
For home care services in Southern NJ and the surrounding areas, call and talk to us at Home to Stay Healthcare Solutions (856) 321-1500.
