10 Best Toilet Seat Risers for Elderlies
Peace Aláwodé
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picture of modern toilet and a grab bar 10 best toilet seat risers for elderlies
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Globally, It is estimated that the number of persons aged 80 years or older could reach 426 million by 2050, while those 60 years and over will increase from 1 billion in 2020 to 2.1 billion.
While it is no longer acceptable to peddle ageist notions, there are data-backed-up facts about the aging population and their health needs. As we age, our bodies undergo a variety of changes that can impact our physical function. Some common age-related functional losses include decreased mobility, reduced strength, and impaired balance. These changes can make it more difficult for older adults to perform everyday tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting.
It’s important to note that some age-related functional losses are avoidable. Many of these changes can be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Also, there are ways to ensure and maintain their independence which involves modifying their environments to meet their needs. This can be as simple as using assistive devices such as toilet seats, grab bars, shower chairs, and many more.
These devices are shown to reduce slip and fall risks which are high among the elderly population.
This article gives a dive into what is, and some of the best toilet seat risers for elderlies based on my opinion as a practicing Doctor of Physical therapy (also Physiotherapy)
What is a toilet seat riser and how does it help
A toilet seat riser is a bathroom aid that helps to reduce the distance one lowers or raises one’s self while using the toilet. This helps to make the bathroom experience safer and more comfortable.
The bathroom is known to be one of the most dangerous places in a house, especially for those with an increased risk of falls, and/or various health conditions.
Choosing The Right Toilet Seat Riser
Though anyone can go along to purchase a toilet seat riser, better advice is to seek professional help and opinion from either an Occupational therapist or a Physical therapist. Either of these specialists can help determine if a toilet seat riser is the best choice for you.
If you want to go down the DIY route, then the following information will come in handy.
First, measurement is key. Two measurements are needed. one from the floor to the top of the toilet seat and a second measuring the knee to the ground level. The difference between these would be the thickness of your toilet seat riser.
Common variability in features include:
Elongated bowls to fit over more contemporary toilet seat designs.
Support arms that allow for grip and support when sitting and standing.
Hinged seats that allow for upward folding when not needed
lid which folds down to cover the toilet seat riser when not in use.
Seat padding which allows for extra comfort
List of the best toilet seat riser
standard designs:
Medline Raised Toilet Seat
(credit: Amazon)
This design is quite affordable, lightweight, and easy to set up and remove. It supports 250 pounds of weight and provides 5 inches of height. Installing it is easy and tool-free.
On the other hand, It has no grab handles or armrest; and not the best when it comes to stability
Carex Safe Lock Raised Toilet Seat
(credit: Amazon)
This is also lightweight and portable. It has an additional safety lock system, providing better stability and reassurance. It boasts of an extra wide seat which bumps up its comfort. It supports up to 300 pounds, is roughly 4 inches thick, and doesn’t break the bank. Installation is easy and tool-free.
Conversely, it is easily noticeable and has no hand grip for support
Designs With Lid:
Aquasense Raised Toilet Seat with lid
(credit: Amazon)
This is also an affordable design. It can support 300 pounds and is 2 inches thick. It also has a safety lock system, ensuring stability. Its distinguishing feature is the lid which can be closed when not in use or flushing fecal matter. Installation is easy and tool-free.
Conversely, it has no hand grip
Design With Hand Grips:
Drive Toilet Seat Riser with Removable Arms
(credit: Amazon)
This features a sturdy plastic with aluminum hand grips which can be easily detached tools-free. It comes in, more bulky with the handgrip and can also be less stable. It can support 300 pounds and is 3.5 inches thick. It is bolted to the toilet and offers a more sturdy and semi-permanent vibe.
Conversely, it is bulky and may not blend in well.
Carex EZ Lock Raised Toilet Seat
(credit: Amazon)
It is sturdy, with padded hand grips. It also supports 300 pounds and is 5 inches thick. Installation is easy and tool-free; rather comes with a safety lock system. The seat is smooth and contoured for comfort.
Conversely, it is bulky.
Hinged Designs:
Drive Medical Hinged Toilet Seat Riser
(credit: Amazon)
It is bolted to the seat and the lid. It allows multiple users thanks to the hinged design. It supports 250 pounds and is 3.5 inches thick
Conversely, the installation demands tools. It has no handgrip and is priced slightly more than the standard
Vive Toilet Seat Riser
(credit: Amazon)
It also integrates with the existing seat and lid and allows for multiple users thanks to the hinged design. It supports 250 pounds and is 3.5 inches thick
Conversely, the installation demands tools. It has no handgrip and is priced slightly more than the standard
Seat Pad Designs:
DMI Raised Toilet Seat
(credit: Amazon)
This is actually more of a seat pad than a toilet seat riser. It allows for even distribution of weight and greatly improves comfort. It is 4 inches thick and compresses to less under body weight. It is lightweight and easily washable. Installation also is easy.
Conversely, it might not be suitable for all as it can lose most of its thickness when under body weight. It has no hand grips
Support frame designs:
Extra-Wide Tall-Ette Toilet Seat
(credit: Amazon)
This is a very durable, free-standing option. It is easily adjustable to several heights and easy to remove and relocate. It supports 400 – 600 pounds and is extra wide and perfect for plus-sized users. It features a hand grip.
Conversely, it is quite bulky and can be difficult to clean. Also comes off as slightly pricey
Electronic Design:
EZ-Access Tilt Toilet Incline Lift Seat
(credit: Amazon)
This is more suited for users with poor lower limb strength or who have a high risk of falls. The mechanical device aids sitting and standing. It supports standard or elongated toilet seats. Supports 325 pounds and is very durable. It is the safest of all the toilet riser designs.
Installation on the other hand can be very technical, though can be installed in about 15 minutes; and definitely comes in pricey.
Conclusion
The key to purchasing the right aid for your or a loved one is measurement. As much as aesthetics is good, prioritizing comfort, function, and suitability to individual use cases is much better.
Do reach out for more information, clarification, and consultation as to finding the best-suited aid
