Studies show that about 1 in every 3 adults above the age of 65 who live independently have a minimum of one fall each year.
The high rate of falls for people in this age bracket means that it’s important to make homes where seniors and elderly people live safe and mobile-friendly in order to prevent any falls from taking place.
One of the most common places where falls take place at home is the bathroom. It’s not uncommon for someone to fall, especially when they are using the toilet.
Having a toilet with a low seat means that a person has to lower themselves further to use the toilet, which can increase the likelihood of falling.
Whether you or someone you are caring for has a mobility issue that makes it hard for them to use the toilet, there are various ways you can reduce the risk of falling in the bathroom.
Some common solutions for this problem include the addition of non-slip mats and grip rails. Another great solution is to include a raised toilet seat in your bathroom. Learn more about them in my guide to the best raised toilet seats for seniors and the elderly.
Having a toilet with a raised seat is a perfect solution as it reduces the risk of falling, giving the person a higher level of independence when engaging in normal day-to-day activities.
It shouldn’t be a luxury to feel safe and confident when using the bathroom, so a raised toilet seat is a must-have for anyone with mobility issues.
Are Raised Toilet Seats Safe?
Raised or high toilet seats are generally safe to use if all relevant instructions are followed accordingly.
These types of toilet seats are actually known for their convenience and safety because they provide a stable base for sitting, making using the toilet easier and assisting you in avoiding falls and slips.
Raised toilet seats are often used alongside grab rails that are installed close to the toilet to help you navigate the bathroom with maximum ease and convenience.
When used in this way, raised toilet seats greatly improve a person’s independence as they engage in their personal activities.
You can even take the time to measure your elderly loved one for a raised toilet seat to get the best one for them.
Other Features Of Raised Toilet Seats
Raised Toilet Seats Are Reliable
The extra height offered by raised toilet seats helps you to sit and stand with minimal effort. Raised toilet seats are reliable in that they offer a firm base for you to sit on every time you are using the bathroom.
You can choose to get a raised toilet seat with or without grab rails. However, raised toilet seats with additional support are highly recommended because they offer excellent support and convenience.
Raised Toilet Seats Provide Relief
Raised toilet seats relieve pressure from your joints, such as the knees. People who suffer from arthritis often have a hard time bending joints because of severe pain and discomfort.
Indeed, for arthritis patients, going on a bathroom break can be a difficult and pain-inducing experience. A raised toilet seat can go a long way in helping such people to have a less tedious bathroom experience.
With a raised toilet seat, you don’t have to go into a squatting position in order to use the toilet.
Raised Toilet Seats Are Easy To Install
In general, raised toilet seats are easy to install and do not require much work. The seats have adjustable fixing handles that firmly secure the seat in place for maximum stability. These handles are positioned on the back and sides for durability.
Raised toilet seats are not only easy to install, but they are also easy to clean as well. All you need is to give it a quick wipe down with an antibacterial wipe or toilet disinfectant, and you’re good to go!
Better Caregiver Safety
It’s not just the person who is being cared for that is at risk of harm when using the bathroom. Caregivers or people who occasionally assist people with mobility issues may also fall or slip while assisting a patient.
With a raised toilet seat, the distance between standing and sitting is significantly reduced. This makes it easier for caregivers to assist patients more easily and safely.
RELATED: Does Medicare Cover Raised Toilet Seats?
Summary And Final Recommendations
Raised toilet seats are highly recommended for people with mobility issues, especially elderly persons, arthritis patients, and people living with a disability.
Raised toilet seats are not only safer for these groups of people. They are crucial in boosting the overall confidence and independence of individuals as they go about their personal activities.
