As a person ages, their mobility usually decreases.  Age related changes such as arthritis, impaired balance and equilibrium responses and decreased strength make transfers more difficult.  There are numerous bath aids for the elderly, which help prevent falls and provide increased safety while in the shower or bath.  Bath grab bars and anti-slip mats help prevent falling in the shower and shower benches allow a person to shower while sitting.  However, there are many people who wish to submerge themselves in a warm bath.  Bathing is frequently a problem for the elderly because of difficulty with lower and raising themselves out of the tub.  Fortunately, there are a few companies who produce bath lifts for the elderly.  Options available to the general consumer are described below.

The Medical Benefit of Bathing

There are many therapeutic benefits attained when bathing instead of showering.  It provides hydrotherapy (water therapy) by means of submersion within a bath tub.  This hydrates the skin, which makes the skin less likely to crack or tear. As we age, the skin becomes thin and less elastic.  Therefore, it is important to make sure the skin is moisturized. Bathing also softens nail bed, which make it easier for nail clipping.  The overall warmth of the bath decreases stress and muscle tone, which then helps with breathing, sleeping and pain control.  The heat also increases circulation to the hands and feet which helps decrease joint pain and improves movement.  A warm bath can also help decrease infection and aid in the healing of skin abrasions or ulcers.  These factors give market demand for bath lifts for the elderly.

Bath Lifts for the Elderly

The bath lifts that are available for the elderly are usually water powered or battery powered.  They sit within the confines of the bath tub and can be raised or lowered through a hydraulic strut mechanism.  The bath lift is operated using an external control.

When first placed in the tub, the seat sits up on level with the rim of the tub. This makes it easier for the user to transfer on to the seat. Once on the seat, the individual can choose to wear a pelvic seat belt if they want extra security. However, the material covering the seat is non-slip foam.  Once the individual is ready, they can operate the remote control to begin to descend into the bathtub.  The lift moves slowly, so that the person bathing can get acclimated to the water.  The bath lift   usually brings the person so they are sitting within an inch or two from the base of the tub.

In some of the models available, the back of the bath lift may recline a bit for improved comfort. Once the person is finished bathing, they can use the remote to bring them back up to the top of the bathtub. They can then dry off and transfer back on to their feet. The bath lift is lightweight and can be easily removed from the bathtub and stored away.

Bath lifts for the elderly, help to significantly reduce falls and injuries in the bathroom.  In the next section, I will discuss different bath lifts and their differences.

Types of Bath Lifts for the Elderly 

One type of bath lift is called the Akkulift bath lift.  Its seat has wings that sit on top of the bath lip, which close in when the bath lift is lowered. This provides lateral hip support and helps stabilize the user. The Akkulift has easy side access, comfortable seating, simple operation and transportability for travel.  The back reclines from 12 to 40 degrees and can lift up to 309 pounds. The unit itself  weighs 35 pounds and is easy to remove from the bath tub for other family members.  The unit can be ordered in blue or white, depending on preference.

Another type of bath lift is called the Neptune bath lift.  The Neptune Bath Lift will safely lower you into and raise you out of the bath. . Ergonomically designed seat means lasting comfort during even the longest of soaks! . Effortlessly raise or lower by “soft touch” hand control, from 2.8”-17.1” . Designed for easy cleaning and proper hygienic care. . Four strong suction feet allow the bath lift to remain stable during use.  Quick-release catch means the seat can be easily detached from the frame, halving the weight and making it lighter and easier to lift from the bath. . Provides comfort and freedom to bathe whenever you want. . Lightweight and portable. . Weight capacity: 350 lbs. . Fits most baths and installs in seconds, 18.5”L x 15”W. . Battery operated.  It claims to have more leg room and bathing space then any other bath lift. 

Overall, there are several bath lift options for the elderly.  With easy set up and use, older individuals can still enjoy the benefits of bathing.