Living space is only as awesome as its suitability for the people who reside in it. In the case of a person who has limited autonomy, it is even more pronounced.
Such an individual may have to make modifications to his or her old habits or even change the environment in which they find themselves. This should conform to the way that they used to live before.
One of the greatest challenges of those who prefer to stay home despite the reduction in their mobility is their desire to continue in their occupation in such a way that can be considered as safe.
For such people to have a safe environment, it is important to give them an ideal environment that is well equipped to deal with all challenges that may arise. One such equipment that can help improve home care is the commode chair.
What Is A Commode Chair?
This is simply a portable toilet chair which can be situated at the bedside of a person with a disability. It is often useful in environments where the person finds it difficult to reach the toilet. It comes with a receptacle that can be emptied and replaced per time. Even though they are mostly used in bathrooms, others can be used in different situations. These include portable commodes, bariatric commodes, and shower commodes.
Why Should Anyone Use A Commode Chair?
In a situation where someone suffers some form of restriction in movement due to an illness or injury, using a toilet may seem like an uphill task. It, therefore, suffices to say that finding a way to eliminate this situation reduces the burden to people affected and their caregivers..
Commodes simply help make the use of toilets easier, safer, and less stressful. Also, its ease of use helps the user focus on getting better.
What Are The Benefits Of A Commode Chair?
There are several reasons that make this chair stand out; chief among this is its functionality and adaptability. Here is a run-down of some of the unique benefits of using the chair:
1. More independence for the challenged user
One of the greatest desires of a person who battles with a loss of autonomy is the desire to be able to do things himself despite the challenges. This is especially in cases of hygiene and intimacy.
The chair empowers you to go to the toilet yourself without any help. A large number of people with mobility difficulties often avoid asking their caregivers for help especially at- night.
They instead prefer waiting for the caregiver to wake up before they make their requests known. This autonomy-giving chair situated close to the bed makes it possible for people to relieve themselves without any external help.
2. Increased safety for caregivers and people with reduced mobility
One of the greatest challenges that face people with limited mobility is the danger associated with falling and getting serious injuries.
With features such as the support bars, this chair enables its users to reduce dangerous maneuvers when they have to assist an individual that doesn’t have balance or strength to stand up on their own.
The chair assists in reducing the inherent risk of injury by lowering the distance traveled especially in the night.
3. Helps in the preservation of privacy
One thing most physically limited people do not like is the idea of being helped to the toilet. This is even when the person who wants to help is close. A physically limited person simply sees it as a breach of privacy.
By using the chair, people with mobility issues can simply be assured of increased privacy because the equipment gives the users an air of independence to do many things themselves. The sense of independence the chair gives allows the users to have an increased sense of self-worth and dignity.
Some models of the chair are often installed over your toilet which nullifies the need for a fixed toilet booster.
4. Cost-effectiveness
One challenge people who suffer a decrease in mobility face is that the places and things that used to be convenient suddenly become less convenient. When such a thing happens, you find such individuals needing to adjust such spaces with some even preferring the things to be replaced.
Also, the use of a special chair can reduce renovation works, especially in the bathroom due to its unique features.. But by using the ideal commode chair, certain expenses and installations would not be necessary. .. Also, it often has a better sight appeal than the other options.
5. Ease of mobility
Some models of this chair can be folded easily and moved from one spot to the other. This is quite ideal for a person who may not be comfortable with the attention which his disability may draw. One must select a sturdy and light chair for ease of use and movement.
6. Well suited for wheelchair users
The design of most wheelchairs makes it quite difficult for users to gain access to some toilets. By using a chair commode, the task of easing one’s self becomes even easier for all parties involved.
This chair comes with features that give it stability which makes a wheelchair user, able to access it without any help. This makes it possible for users to have some measure of independence and self-worth.
7. Adjustable height
A person with limitations in movement will find out that his or her stiff knees, aching joints, and hips make the journey to the toilet a challenge. Several commode chairs are adjustable which means they can be made to suit the needs of the user.
By having a higher position, it simply means that there would be greater ease when attempting to use the toilet seat. This does reduce the workload on the joints and bones which implies less anxiety and pain for the user.
What Are The Types Of Commode Chairs?
Knowing the right type of commode will certainly save you a lot of stress while also giving you the right choice. There are several commode chairs out there, the main ones are:
Static commodes
This type of commode often does not have wheels and as such can be carried to wherever they may be needed. Several static commodes usually have splayed legs which give them stability and can be easily stacked. It also comes with detachable arms which helps it in cases of lateral transfer. A number of them come with a lid, and handles.
Portable commodes
This type of commode is created in such a way as to give it ease of movement by the caretakers. Several portable commodes are usually lightweight and come with four wheels which can be moved on the carpet, wood flooring, and tiles. Also, mobile commodes can be moved over the modern-day toilets to give more privacy.
Bariatric commodes
Just as in the case of all bariatric products, bariatric commodes are usually designed to carry individuals who weigh more than 300 lbs. This is unlike the regular commodes which can’t carry more than 300 lbs. it also comes fitted with wider seats when compared with the traditional commodes thus permitting the user to sit with comfort without a feeling of confinement. Several bariatric commodes also come designed with a drop arm which makes it easy to transfer the person from a wheelchair.
How Can I Help Someone Using A Commode Chair?
You can be of help to your loved ones who use a commode by simply following the following helpful tips:
Have a plan
You must ensure that the chair is kept close to the bed or chair of your loved ones. You should keep it in a place where it can be easily reached but not a place where it would be an obstacle. But before helping the person with the commode, ensure that you gather together the needed supplies like gloves, toilet paper, and wet wipes. Also, ensure that you properly wash and dry your hands and use a glove if you feel the need. Ensure that the wheel sof the commode is properly locked.
Transferring them to the commode
You can assist your loved one to be transferred from the bed or chair to the commode by ensuring that their legs are not crossed. And have the person lean forward before they stand. Ensure that they do not lose balance when sitting down.
Conclusion
The benefits of using this chair are numerous. It lowers the risk of acquiring new injuries for people who are recovering from an accident. This is in addition to the fact that it lowers the anxiety which users feel when they are about to pay a visit to the bathroom. It also permits its users to go on trips that would have hitherto been too daunting.
Chief among the unique benefits is that it helps its users to retain every sense of dignity they once had. It grants its users independence thus giving more freedom to the caregiver and receiver. A chair commode is certainly one of those inventions that make a lot of difference in the quality of lives.
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