Technology

Commode Chairs

In this day and age of advanced technology, there are such things as multi-functional wheelchairs, which come equipped with a shower and commode.

To save on the discomfort of being continually shifted from a wheelchair to a commode or shower and back again, you might spare a thought for the advantages of opting for such a multi-functional wheelchair. Contemplating such issues can help you make life considerably easier for the patient.

Choosing a commode chair for an elderly or disabled person can be a tough task, given the wide variety and the number of features that such chairs come with. Bui this task can be made easier of give some thought to the following:

• Most commode chairs or seats have to be of a specific weight. This can de determined by the size of the seat itself, which varies in accordance with the weight. The standard around 120 kg, while heavier ones are in the 160-210 kg range. Some models also come with arms for patients to help themselves push upwards to get off the seat. Padded arms and seats, while comfortable, may not give the patient the grip that he requires to lever him or herself off the seat. So keep the choice of the commode as businesslike as possible, without too many deluxe features.



• There are commodes that come with armrests that you have to push down on because they are not fixed. This feature must be checked as a person could lose his balance while trying to push down to leverage upwards. A wheeled variety of commode seat are also available in plenty. These, as the name implies can be wheeled around like ordinary wheelchairs. But if you have a patient who is tentative about such advanced features, then do stick with the normal ones.

However, you can opt for a commode seat that is foldable or collapsible. This will help to save space in the bathroom.

Source: Collapsible commodes are perfect. Asian Age, Daily, New Delhi, 3 May 2007.