The search for a new shower-toilet wheelchair can be quite a challenge. Our advisor will help you on your way.

An inadequate shower (toilet) wheelchair can have many unpleasant consequences. Difficult transfers or sitting for a long time (without clothes) can cause pressure sores, bad laxation or incontinence and thus limit your independence considerably. Advisor Dean Kampshoff lists the most important principles for you when looking for a new shower-toilet wheelchair.

1. Independence

Think of powering, making transfers, laxing, safe showering, stable and comfortable sitting. Your capabilities, wishes and goals form the basis of what kind of aid you need..

2. Transfer

Do you slide over, make a standing transfer or use a hoist? Your transfer options determine the seat height of the shower chair, the choice of leg/foot support, but also the design of the seat. The most optimal height for your transfer remains a combination of several factors, such as your height, strength and the height of your bed or toilet. One cm higher or lower often makes all the difference. The seat height adjustment is then essential.

3. Good comfortable seating position

Do you have a moderate/slow trunk balance? An adjustable back combined with a good seat and armrests at the right height and adjustable foot support help to maintain a stable sitting posture. Your sitting position and foot support also influence laxity and the pressure on the tailbone/bones. If you use your shower-toilet seat for going to the toilet and showering, you will soon be sitting in your shower seat for half an hour or more. With a soft custom-made seat you reduce the chance of pressure sores. In addition, the recess can be realised in such a way that your sitting position also makes a positive contribution to laxation and/or the (independent) insertion of laxatives.

4. Driving (independently)

The sitting position in relation to the wheels, the size of the wheels and also hoops with rubber or tetranods can help to make independent driving easier. If you still have limited function in your leg muscles, if you are paralysed half-sided or if you have a condition affecting several limbs, tripping can help to move you forward. Your seat height must then be extra low so that your legs can help you move.

5. Special adaptations

Do you need specific adaptations to be able to sit stably, make transfers, operate or drive shower-toilet wheelchairs properly, or is the space in your bathroom and/or bedroom limited? Then look at the possibilities for adaptations! This can vary from special torso support, adapted brakes to a frame tailored to your situation.

6. Transport

Practice shows that it is nice if you can take your shower-toilet wheelchair with you when you leave home. This way, you will be able to sit in the same position you are used to when you go on holiday. If the shower chair can be (partially) dismantled, it will fit in a passenger car. When you arrive at your destination and your bed is higher than at home, a height adjustment can help you make your transfers or drive over the toilet. We are happy to advise you!