Building a Better Bath Lift

The many physical and emotional health benefits of bathing are well documented. A bath can relax sore muscles, relieve stress and even improve circulation. So when someone who enjoys bathing is no longer able to safely get in and out of the tub on their own, a simple solution is welcome.

A bath lift is that simple solution. A bath lift is a portable seat with a base that can be placed inside a bath tub to lower and raise someone in and out of the tub. Because they are portable, bath lifts offer a simple solution that requires no installation. The lifts allow individuals to get in and out of the tub with the water already in it, which is more comfortable for the user. There are several bath lifts to choose from on the market, with different features. Understanding the needs and preferences of the user will guide the product selection. 

Styles and Common Features

Bath lifts come with either a fixed or reclining back. The fixed back bath lift is usually a more economical choice and can be placed further back in the tub to allow more legroom. A reclining back offers comfort but is usually more expensive than a fixed back model.

Most lifts offer tool-free assembly. Once 
assembled, they can be easily removed from the tub in one or two pieces, an important feature for bathrooms that are shared with sev ral 
family members.Most bath lifts come with flaps on the seat that, when opened, create a transfer surface between the edge of the tub and the lift. As the lift lowers into the tub the flaps pivot so the seat fits into the tub.

The up and down movement of the seat 
is generally operated by a remote control. Most remote controls are battery operated, rechargeable and have a built-in safety feature that will not lower someone into the tub unless there is enough energy left to raise the user out of the tub as well. Most bath lifts also come with 
suction cup feet to ensure the frame remains 
securely in one place for use.

Physical Requirements

The user’s height and weight are important 
considerations when choosing a suitable bath lift. Weight capacities of products available on the market today range from 250 pounds to 375 pounds. One of the highest weight capacity options is the AquaJoy Premier Plus Reclining Bathlift from Drive Medical, which accommodates users up to 375 pounds. If trying to accommodate a particularly tall user, it is important to consider the size of the tub and how far back in the tub the bath lift must be to fit the user’s legs. If the bath lift has a reclining backrest, placement in the tub must allow room behind the bath lift to recline. The size of the seat and backrest should be considered as well, to ensure the user can comfortably fit on the seat. If desired, some bath lifts offer seats with a hygienic cut-away for washing.

If the user has severe mobility issues, there are optional features to secure the user in place, such as safety straps and a pommel. Additionally, rotating disks can be added to the seat to assist with transfers.

Home Environment

The length, width and depth of the tub will also help guide product selection. The tub should allow for both the lift and the user to fit comfortably when the lift is in the reclined position. It is also important that the lift can be raised high enough to allow transfers and lowered enough to allow the user to be completely immersed in the water. The bath lift with the highest lifting range is the Bellavita from Drive Medical, which lowers to 2.3 inches and raises to 18.8 inches.

If the user shares the bathroom with other family members and the bath lift needs to be removed frequently, the product’s weight is an important consideration as well.

User Preferences

Additional options are available in many models that accommodate a variety of personal preferences. These include:
•  Head rests for those who will be reclining 
and plan to linger in the bath
• Padding for added comfort (usually 
removable and washable)
•  A reclining back with adjustable angles (Drive Medical’s Bellavita offers a 
50-degree recline). The reclining may occur automatically as the seat is lowered into the tub or be an independent movement.

While bath lifts offer an excellent solution for many individuals who want to continue to enjoy taking baths, they also represent a good source of revenue for home health care providers.