There needs to be enough room for the length of the transfer bench and room for the user to safely stand and sit in front of the bench. You need enough floor space in front of the bathtub that you will be able to have the transfer bench in place and be able to stand in front of the bench in order to sit down. Bariatric users can safely rely on our #5 pick, the Adjustable Bariatric Transfer Bench by Drive Medical to provide a strong and stable shower transfer. The Closet, which started as a small collection in our back office, now takes up nearly a 1/3 of our 4,100 square foot lease complete with a waiting room, resource center, two showrooms, a cleaning room, workshop, overstock room and office space. Benches designed for bariatric customers may have additional support in the legs and feel sturdier, providing a greater sense of security to the user. To determine the best seat width for you, measure your backside's width when sitting on a flat surface. A nice hot shower is supposed to relax and rejuvenate you. Different benches have various assembly methods, depending on the manufacturer. It has been named Best of the Best among industry watchers, and it earned the top spot on our list because of its durability, comfort, and the independence it provides users. To further customize it for a perfect fit, additional kits for installation in taller or wider tubs are available. You obviously wouldn't want to receive a used transfer bench and in general, most everyone else feels the same way. It will also help people who lack depth perception or those who are dealing with dementia health issues. Using a wobbly or uneven transfer bench can lead to injury. Clean regularly using a mild detergent and warm water. The backrest also helps you save energy. experienced journalists and medical experts, Arent able to stand for long periods of time, Height-adjustable legs from 16 inches to 23 inches, Adjustable height from 15.5 inches to 19.5 inches, Adjustable height from 17.5 inches to 22.5 inches. This bridge eliminates the need to "step" over the bathtub wall. Bath transfer benches are designed to be partially inside the tub and partially outside the tub. The bench has rubber caps or suction cups at the bottom of each leg (see Figure 5). This position allows seniors to slide into the bathtub without the need to climb over the edge of the tab, which can be dangerous for a person with mobility or stability issues. But with so many confusing alternatives, which one would give the best value? If you can bend your knees, position the bench towards the middle. It also means less scooting, which causes less skin friction. A tub transfer bench, however, goes a long way in adding to senior comfort when showering. After securing the safety lap belt, the caregiver can then help slide the individual over the lip of the bathtub and into the shower, giving them safety, security and independence while bathing. and can hold weight up to 550 lbs. The bench should be facing the showerhead so that when you sit, the water comes out in front of you. A transfer bed is a device that is used to transfer the elderly or a person with special needs from one area to another, particularly inside the bathroom. Once youre done, reverse the process to get out. [3 Proven Ways], Adjust the tub benchs leg length to make the se, Styling and Appearance Tips for Gray Hair, Clothing and Accessories for Older Adults. This bench is compact yet sturdy, supporting up to 400 pounds safely. The most important factors to consider are the transfer bench's specifications, such as the length, width, and height. Keeping the shower liner, and the shower water, inside the tub along with its easy setup and reversible orientation have earned this assistance device a place among the best transfer benches for tubs and showers. Now that your bench is level and stabilized, set it in place with the suction cups inside the tub, and then push it down until the cups hold firmly. All of which make the bathing process uncomfortable. The user gets on the seat from the outside of the tub and scoots over on the seat to the inside, lifting one leg at a time over the tub's side. They provide better stability than safety rails and grab bars because you can remain seated. transfer boards are specifically designed for easy toilet and tub transfers. Chris Nee 3 hrs 3 The latest episode of On The Bench is focused on previewing Florida State's upcoming June . The other two feet have non-slip covers to keep them in place outside the tub. To use this type of shower bench, the caregiver first places the shower bench with rails in the bath or shower and stabilizes it. The strong plastic and aluminum construction supports up to 300 lbs. A user stands in front of the bench with the back of the legs touching the bench, slowly lowering onto the bench with the help of grab bars or handholds. A transfer bench is placed straddling the wall of the bathtub so two feet are inside the tub and the other two feet are placed outside of the tub. Bathrooms contain many hard and slippery surfaces that are enough to intimidate most seniors when showering. He has worked as a manufacturer's rep for the top medical equipment companies and a custom wheelchair specialist at a durable medical equipment (DME) provider in WV. The seat depth should be an inch or two greater than this measurement for safe and comfortable seating. A tub transfer bench helps users get in and out of the bathtub safely and gives them a seat to use while bathing. This avoids a slippery and dangerous exit from the tub. I got pain relief after the first use of 30 minutes. Second, we also include links to advertisers offers in some of our articles; these affiliate links may generate income for our site when you click on them. Slide to the portion of the bench located in the tub. In the end, most people find that a transfer bench is not very feasible to use within a shower. Rehabmart offers an extensive product line of bath benches, also known as bath chairs, bath transfer benches, shower benches or shower chairs.Our bath benches are height adjustable and designed to fit . When you lift the leg closest to the tub wall, slide a little so you have room to place your leg inside the tub. Note that different split curtains are made for different designs of transfer benches, so make sure your choice is compatible with your chair. Enjoy your warm bath! However, they can be uncomfortable to sit on for long periods. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Health site. Stand in front of the bench, ensuring you can feel the bench at the back of your legs. Transfer benches are bath seats designed to be placed with two legs of the bench inside the tub and two outside the tub. Our website services, content and products are for informational purposes only. I am not a medical professional, and no information on Graying With Grace should be taken over the advice of a medical professional. Tub transfer benches help with balance in two different ways. DMI 522-1734-1900 Tub Transfer Bench and Sliding Shower Chair. Your transfer bench will be of no use to you if it doesn't fit properly in your bathroom, and many companies don't take returns of bath safety products. Her work can be found in Variety, Paste Magazine, The Muse and on her personal website (jessicamlester.com). Transfer benches can also be used with or without a backrest. You will also want to consider the bench's seat dimensions so that you can transfer on and off safely and sit comfortably. Suction cups are the recommended option, as they secure the bench to the tub and floor and entirely prevent it from slipping. Product prices are not guaranteed and are listed for comparison purposes only. If you have ever experienced back pain or had difficulty with movement, you will understand the risk of taking a shower without safety aids. Get the Forbes Health newsletter for helpful tips, news, product reviews and offers from a name you can trust. Medline Transfer Bench for Bathtub, for Use as a Bath Chair or Shower Seat, Durable with Height. A transfer tub bench is a seat used to help you move in and out of your shower or bathtub. This post may contain affiliate links. Highly recommend but do your due diligence and learn about the machine and different modes first. I agree to receive the Forbes Health newsletter via email. The product materials are especially important to consider when purchasing bath products like transfer benches. The legs inside the tub sometimes have plungers at their base that grip the tub's surface for stability. Homecraft Bathtub Transfer Bench . Transfer benches can be useful to a wide variety of people, including those who: Tub transfer benches are one of the easier and more affordable home modifications that can help older adults maintain independence, improve function and prevent injury in high-risk spaces. The benchs seat width is a robust 27 inches, and it features drainage holes to help minimize pooling. To keep your transfer bench looking and performing as good as new, be sure to do the following: Unfortunately, no, Medicare does not cover transfer benches or other bath safety products. The main difference is in placement. Site Map. The backrest should be behind you. Leg heights play an important role in the usability of tub transfer benches. Since it will be exposed regularly to water, a transfer bench built with materials that are resistant to rust will last longer. Because of this, shower chairs are more compact and perfect for small bathrooms or if you need more space for a caregiver to assist you. If the user has limited sight or poor depth perception, place a brightly colored towel on the bench seat. They are also helpful to assist recovery after a stroke or hip fracture. Stock Images by DepositPhotos. To design a shower curtain that can be used with transfer benches, our team researched the need for a shower curtain for transfer benches, the problems faced by current transfer bench users, the existing products and patents of shower curtains for transfer benches, and types of major transfer benches in use. Even if you find that the backrest makes transfers slower, I would highly recommend anyone who is in danger of falls to use a backrest each time they use their transfer bench. . Bathing is essential for skin care and comfort but it is also one of the most dangerous activities of daily living. For example, they both provide a secure place to sit while showering. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional. Additionally, transfer benches can also provide a secure place to sit and rest should the user tire while bathing. The Best Non-Slip Shower Shoes for the Elderly (Comfortably Improve Your Shower Safety!). Slide to the edge of the bench and lift each leg over the side of the tub, one by one. This unique design helps prevent falls, joint strain, and friction-induced skin tears while empowering users to independently take care of their own bathing or showering. It allows you to thoroughly rinse yourself while seated and will enable you to adjust the water pressure if you desire easily. Mike has spent his professional career working in multiple areas of Occupational Therapy, including pediatrics, geriatrics, hand therapy, ergonomics and inpatient / outpatient rehabilitation. Transfer Bench: Safety Tips & Buyer's Guide. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. $63.14 New. TENS 7000 Rechargeable TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator and Pain Relief Machine, Replacement Parts for the Carex Trio Rolling Walker, TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit With Accessories, TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit Kit With Accessories. You could also cover the bench with a bright fabric to increase visibility for your senior and warm up the bench. 2023 RehabMart.com, LLC, Founded by Occupational & Physical Therapists, Operated by Occupational & Physical Therapists, Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat by Platinum Health, Adjustable Bariatric Transfer Bench by Drive Medical, Padded Tub and Shower Transfer Bench by Medline, Drive Medical Splash Defense Transfer Shower Bench with Curtain Guard, HydroGlyde Sliding Tub Transfer Bench by Platinum Health, Splash Defense Transfer Shower Bench with Curtain Guard, Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat, Oxygen Concentrators, Cylinders, & Supplies, Work Tables for Therapy and Rehabilitation, Trusted by Professional & Family Caregivers, Blow-molded plastic holds up to heavy use, Assembly is quick and does not require tools, Lightweight frame resists corrosion and supports users up to 500 pounds, Extra-large suction cup feet for stability, Feels heavy duty, confident it will not fail, Adjustable leg height accommodates slightly uneven bathroom floor, Doesnt hold up to regular use by 500-pound patient, Sturdy, durable, and comfortably cushioned, Supports user independence and self-reliance, Decreases the risk of a fall in the shower, Easy to change the direction the backrest faces, Approved by visiting in-home physical therapist, Reversible backrest to accommodate any shower, Strong and durable blow-molded plastic bench, U-shape cutout keeps shower liner inside the tub, Keeps water from getting all over the bathroom floor and making a wet mess, Reclaim dignity and independence by being able to get situated unassisted, Needed to modify it to fit height of user and rise of tub, Option to use chair with or without insert, Helpful for caretakers who dont have to lift patient, Have to be able to lift your legs while sitting, 360-degree swivel chair for easy transfers, Seat and back are thickly padded for comfort, Much less expensive than installing a walk-in tub, After being assisted to the seat, user can do the rest, Cushioned seat isnt cold like plastic models. What is a backrest on a transfer bench for? The opinions expressed are the authors alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers. To find the right bench for you, identify the details that will be most helpful in your situation. You just sit down on the bench outside the tub, slide on it over the tub wall, and enjoy your shower in safety and comfort. Tub transfer benches can be found with several seat options. Its also known as a shower bench. The type of transfer you will use depends on your overall health and strength. It can be installed for right or left side accessibility and its easy to disinfect and keep clean. Shes covered everything from endocrinology to entrepreneurship, food safety to finances. By sliding across this transfer bench, you dont risk a fall that could come with trying to step into your bathtub. A simplified approach to choosing the ideal transfer bench based on your needs. A tub transfer bench is an extended shower chair that sits both inside and outside of the bathtub that makes getting in and out easier. Shower chairs are also ideal in confined spaces where a transfer bench just wont fit. This transfer bench bath seat weighs 11 lbs. In this case, the patient is hoisted in the sling-lift from a wheelchair or stretcher and seated on the shower bench so that they can then slide into the bath or shower. A tub transfer bench is a long seat with two legs sit in the tub and two legs sit on the floor outside the tub. Comes standard with over-sized slip-resistant tips for increased stability. And with its no-tools-required, snap-in assembly, putting it together is easy. Height adjustable legs will allow the bath transfer bench to accommodate the height of the user plus individually adjust the legs so that the bench is level and secure inside and outside the tub. I love my Tens unitmy son got it for me after I finished rehab for a total knee replacement. The size, (usually adjustable) height, and width can all vary. It has a reversible back that works with just about every bathroom design, and it can be positioned as needed for the safest user transfers. The most important factors to consider are the transfer bench's specifications, such as the length, width, and height. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers offers appear on the site. Transfer benches are wonderful tools that make bathing safer and easier for people and their caregivers. 9am-6pm Mon-Fri EST or Buy Online 24 hours/day! Should you decide to use a shower chair, it may need to be supplemented by a grab bar or safety rail. A transfer bench with a back is not much more expensive than one without, and backrests provide a safe, sturdy place to rest against. When not promoting better living for older adults, he enjoys outdoor activities including hiking and kayaking and early morning runs. There are several reasons why you should use the backrest: A backrest helps you maintain your balance by giving you a firm and secure surface to lean against. What to Consider Before Purchasing a Transfer Bench. This durable and highly functional transfer shower bench has an 11.75-inch armrest, a seat width of 28 inches, and a seat depth of 16 inches. What is a Transfer Bench? Medicare doesnt list tub transfer benches as durable medical equipment (DME) eligible for coverage. Adding a tub transfer bench to the bathroom simplifies the showering experience for seniors with mobility challenges. A transfer bench is your best option if you usually use a mobility aid for assistance, and falling is a serious risk. You could, however, go for a split design curtain that keeps water inside the tub for maximum safety from slips and falls. Use a grab bar if you have one to keep your balance. However, if they have trouble getting into and out of the tub, install grab bars to have a firm handhold. If transferring from a wheelchair, the space required for that has to be considered too. A bath safety mobility device that straddles the side of a bathtub. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. Adjustable legs allow the user to customize the bench to their space and find an even seat. Please read my, The Best Way to Keep Water Off of the Floor When Using a Bathtub Bench with a Shower Curtain, Compassionately helping seniors and their caregivers solve challenges of aging, Benefits of a Tub Transfer Bench: Improving Bathtub Accessibility, How to Set Up/Install a Transfer Bench [5 Easy Steps], How to Use a Transfer Bench to Take a Shower, How Can I Keep Water in a Bathtub With a Transfer Bench? This provides a contrast that helps them distinguish the difference between the bench and the bathtub floor. $85.54 $ 85. To determine the best seat depth, measure the length from your backside to the back of your knees. Medline Transfer Bench for Bathtub Use as a Bath Chair or Shower Seat . Place the transfer bench so that two legs are inside the bathtub and two legs are outside the bathtub. If you have a grab bar or wall rail, use it to maintain control. To determine the best seat width for you, measure your backside's width when sitting on a flat surface. Shower chairs do not, you must stand and lift your leg over the wall in order to reach the seat inside the tub. Slide over until you are comfortably seated completely inside the tub. Once located, slowly lower into a seated position. For more information about staying safe in the bathroom, check out our Ultimate Guide to Bath Safety. The weight that a transfer bench can hold is a feature that will vary slightly from one brand to the next. It is very comfortingjust like rehab. It has a sliding padded seat that swivels and locks every 90 degrees, which makes bathing and showering much more accessible. However, having a tub transfer bench in the bathroom takes the weight off you and provides much-needed support when taking a bath. Learn how and when to remove this template message, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Transfer_bench&oldid=1100005251, This page was last edited on 23 July 2022, at 19:01. Choose between two basic types: a freestanding shower seat or a seat that's mounted to the shower or bath wall for greater durability. Because it will be regularly exposed to water, you will want to buy a transfer bench made of rust-resistant materials such as aluminum or plastic. Check with the retailer for details regarding a specific tub transfer bench before you make a purchase. With adjustable legs, someone might want to . If you have poor sitting balance, a backrest will help you use a transfer bench with confidence. She tells stories that help people make smart, informed decisions about their health and lives. It allows the user to sit on the bench and safely turn, then enter or exit the tub easily. Once your feet are firmly planted on the floor, stand with the assistance of an aide or walker as needed. If your shower/bath tub has a sliding glass door, as some do, you may not be able to effectively utilize a transfer bench without replacing the door with curtains. You should also check the weight restrictions for your transfer bench, some heavy duty transfer benches can hold up to 400lbs safely, while others hold 200lbs, make sure your bench works for you. Measure the bathroom and compare those measurements against the specs of your transfer bench. The transfer bench also supports people with mobility problems, Having a tub transfer bench in the bathroom. This transfer bench features space for shower curtain placement, adjustable seat height, and a textured, non-slip surface on both the seat and back. A transfer bench is an alternative to a shower chair with an extended seat that sticks partially out of the bathtub and partially inside. People who have limited mobility or are recovering from an injury or surgery may need help getting on and off a tub transfer bench and while bathing. Back up to the bench until you feel it behind both of your legs. $53.99 Used. The frame is made of lightweight corrosion-resistant aluminum, and the backrest and bench are made from durable plastic that resists rust and mold. Lift one leg at a time, sliding a little to provide room for the second leg once the first is in position. Slowly sit down, feeling for the bench at the back of your legs. 16. Check Price at Amazon. Stock Images by DepositPhotos. Many wall-mounted seats even fold up and out of the way when they're not needed. They come equipped with anti-slip sitting surfaces and rubber stops fitted on the legs of the chair. Since the chair can be positioned facing either direction, its suitable for any bathroom. To determine the best tub transfer benches of 2023, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on over 50 products, ranking them based on the following factors: Whether youre bathing with assistance or showering on your own, using your tub transfer bench can help you use your bathroom space safely. To do this, cut the area into a V shape so the person using the tub bench can insert the flap into the slit in the seat. This durable long-lasting bath bench made our list because of its stability, adjustable seat that prevents skin shearing, and the independence it provides for users. He is father to 4 beautiful daughters and has three terrific grandkids. Landing at number 1, with its padded 360-degree turning seat, is the Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat by Platinum Health. Most transfer benches are adjustable in height and . The seat should be significantly wider (6 or more inches) than this measurement for safe transferring on and off the bench. This compensation comes from two main sources. However, this bench only includes large, oversized suction cups on two of its four legs and doesnt have a grip on the armrest. Additionally, individuals . Providing privacy and preventing water from spilling onto the floor, our number 3 pick is the Splash Defense Transfer Shower Bench with Curtain Guard from Drive Medical. She specializes in content marketing as well as both developmental and copy editing. Bamboo Transfer bench Make Showers Safe and Comfortable A shower seat is great for both safety and comfort. Two of its legs are placed in the tab, while the other two sit on the bathroom floor. If you've decided that a transfer bench is the best option, you should consider a few factors to find the right one for you. If youre unsure how to use your bench, try these steps: When youre finished washing, dry off before moving from the bench. Most bathroom transfer benches are designed to hold weights of up to 220 pounds. A transfer bench is designed to straddle the tub wall, while a shower chair sits entirely inside the shower or bathtub. 4. If you have any further questions about finding the right transfer bench for you, consult with your doctor, or feel free to speak with a Carex representative. She loves dogs, vegetables and stories that make her guffaw. Becky Brown is a professional writer whose mission it is to empower readers. Sit as far back on the bench as possible. ALWAYS make sure the transfer bench is level and stable before using. Which provides the safest shower setup for older adults? School & District Management Video Panel Discussion: Successful Responses to the Student . First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. Because they eliminate the need to step over the tub wall, balance isnt a factor when getting in and out of the tub. What is a Transfer Bench? Ensure that it is still stable, the suction cups are stuck securely, and that you feel safe and supported. After carefully studying the manual, researching therapy videos and determining the best placement this is easy to use. . It has a reversible backrest to accommodate any bathroom and a weight capacity of 400 pounds. Once the three sets of rails are connected, the caregiver can roll the chair (with the seated patient) over the rails laterally, off the wheeled base of the mobile chair, across the bridge, and into the shower or bath. This sheet will describe one type of transfer: using a transfer board. However, they may purchase the same product. Transferring Using a Transfer (Sliding) Board Transferring means moving between two surfaces such as a bed and a wheelchair. Transfer benches will also be helpful to people who are recovering from surgery or an injury. Transfer benches can be purchased with either padded or unpadded seats. I did phone and speak with one of your care specialists, was he a therapist or clnician, very nice and helpful. Rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning with detergent. A bath bench is an essential piece of bathroom safety equipment specially designed to help weak, elderly or disabled people minimize the risk of slipping or falling in the bathtub while bathing. This safety improvement helps reduce the risk of falls and slips further while using the bathtub. Copyright 2023 Express Medical Supply. Most standard transfer benches have weight capacities between 250 and 300 pounds, while heavy-duty transfer benches can support up to 500 pounds. Because it will be regularly exposed to water, you will want to buy a transfer bench made of rust-resistant materials such as aluminum or plastic. A handheld shower head can also assist in an individual's improved independence in the shower. Since the liner doesnt go all the way down, some water may still escape, so this should be a temporary solution. DMI Tub Transfer Bench and Shower Chair with Non Slip Aluminum Body, FSA Eligible, Adjustable Seat Height and Cut Out Access, Holds Weight up to 400 Lbs, Bath and Shower Safety, Transfer Bench. Its also known as a transfer chair or shower bench. The transfer bench's weight capacity should be taken into account to ensure that the bench can safely support the user's weight. $89.00 New. Jessica is a writer, editor and media professional who has spent her career working with some of the most influential names in media. No tools are required to install or take it out of a tub. I am not a medical professional, and no information on Graying With Grace should be taken over the advice of a medical professional. Price: $$$ Material: aluminum Assembly required: yes Weight limit: 550 lbs. If you choose padded feet, be sure they have non-slip tips. Tub transfer benches are among many bathroom safety devices that help persons with disabilities and mobility issues take a bath. The weight capacity for a tub transfer bench can range from 250 pounds to more than 550 pounds. Description 950 views 1 year ago In this video the caregiver will learn about a tub transfer bench and how to instruct an individual in it's use. On the other hand, while padded transfer benches are more expensive, they are much more comfortable if you are thin and boney or tend to take long showers. They are typically placed outside a bathtub or shower stall, providing a stable and supportive surface for users to sit on while transferring in and out of the bathing area.