Ins and outs of bathing (view report contents)
Hoists and lifts
If getting into a bath is difficult even with a board, seat and grab rails, you may need to think about a lifting system. These may be cheaper than installing a special bath, and may take up less room. Discuss what you may need with an Occupational Therapist.
Portable lifts
These sit in the bath. You slide onto the seat and it lowers you in and lifts you out of the bath. You have to be able to get onto the seat from the side of the bath and lift your legs over the side. See Guide to portable bath lifts.
Fixed bath hoists
These can be manual or electric. They have a seat which you get onto outside the bath. They are supported by a column which is fixed to the floor.
Manual lifts are wound up and down by hand. You sit on the seat, turn the handle to raise the seat up. Then you swing the seat over the bath by hand and then turn the handle the other way to lower the seat. The handles are in different positions on different models - but generally they are easier for someone else to turn. They cost from £830-£2,800.
Options with some models include different types of seat, armrests, leg supports and lifts with a detachable portable chassis. Powered lifts are similar except that you press a button rather than turn a handle. From £1,600.
The Bath-Knight (£860) is different. You pull a retractable wide fabric band out of a small unit on the wall, and hook it onto a catch on the floor. You sit on the band (like a bathboard) and lift your legs over the rim of the bath. You press a button and it lowers you into the bath. It takes up no space in the bath and does not get in the way of other bath users. More details from Silvercrown Associates.
Baths with built-in lifts
You can buy special a bath with a built-in lift. You get on the seat outside the bath and the seat swivels over the rim, and lowers you into the bath. Some can be lowered on the outside of the bath too. Most seats can be removed so that they are out of the way - by an able-bodied person.
Options with some models: Folding armrests, lever taps, head cushions, shower attachment, whirlpool. From about £1,500-£2,800+.
Mobile hoists
These are generally for people who need a hoist in more than one room - they can be wheeled about. You sit in a sling which is attached to the hoist. It lifts you over the side of the bath and then down. They are either electric or are pumped with a lever. There has to be enough room for the base of the hoist. If your bath is boxed in, you may have to cut a hole in the side panel. £700-£2,000.
Ceiling track hoists
These also have a sling seat but it is suspended from a track in the ceiling. They are powered and can be used without help. They do not take up any floor space. From about £600-£1,700. Guide to portable bath lifts.
Report contents
Introduction
How to use this guide
Holding on
Helpful Aids
Getting in and out of the bath
Baths and showers
Loos and basins
Hoists and lifts
Guide to portable bath lifts
Checklist of things to look for
Help, information and advice
Useful publications
Manufacturers
