For many people, particularly seniors or those recovering from hip or knee surgery, the simple act of sitting down on and standing up from a toilet can be difficult and painful. A standard toilet is often too low, putting unnecessary strain on joints and increasing the risk of a fall. An over toilet aid is a simple, non-permanent solution that makes toileting safer and preserves independence.
What is an Over Toilet Aid?
An over toilet aid (also known as a toilet surround frame or toilet raiser) is a sturdy, freestanding frame that is placed over an existing toilet. Its primary purpose is to increase the height of the toilet seat and provide supportive armrests to assist with transfers. This piece of equipment requires no special installation and can be easily placed in the bathroom or removed when not needed, making it a convenient option for many households.
The Main Benefits of an Over Toilet Aid
Using an over toilet aid provides several key benefits:
- Raises the Seat Height The elevated seat height reduces the distance and effort required to sit down and stand up. By keeping the user's hips higher than their knees, it minimises stress on the leg and hip joints, making the process much less painful for those with arthritis or limited flexibility.
- Provides Stable Support The integrated armrests offer a firm and reliable place to hold onto. Users can lean on them for support when lowering themselves onto the seat and use them to push up to a standing position, which significantly improves stability and reduces the reliance on caregivers.
- Increases Safety and Reduces Fall Risk By providing a higher seat and secure armrests, an over toilet aid helps prevent falls that can occur when a person loses their balance while trying to use a low toilet. This increased safety builds confidence and helps maintain independence in the bathroom.
- Versatility Many over toilet aids are designed to be multi-functional. With the addition of a bowl and lid, the frame can be used as a standalone bedside commode, which is particularly useful for those who have difficulty getting to the bathroom at night.
How to Choose the Right Over Toilet Aid
When selecting an over toilet aid, consider the following features:
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Height Adjustability: Look for a model with height-adjustable legs. This is crucial for setting the frame at the perfect height for the user, ensuring their feet can be placed flat on the floor for proper support.
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Seat and Lid: A plastic, clip-on seat is hygienic and easy to clean. Many come with a lid and a splashguard for added convenience.
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Weight Capacity: Always check the product's safe working load to ensure it can safely support the user's weight.
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Durability: Frames made from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminium or powder-coated steel are lightweight yet durable and ideal for the bathroom environment.
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Non-Slip Feet: Rubber or non-slip ferrules on the bottom of the legs are essential to prevent the frame from moving on the bathroom floor.
Medihub helps pharmacies and allied health professionals across Australia provide high-quality daily living aids. Learn more about partnering with Medihub to offer our comprehensive range of assistive technology to your clients.