Blog Post
You might be wondering if a tub transfer bench is the right choice for the person you care for. Here are common questions to help you learn if this is the right piece of equipment for you to purchase to improve the bath safety of the care recipient.
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Q: Who would benefit from using a tub transfer bench?
A: A bath bench provides a place for someone to sit when they’re taking a bath or shower. It’s a good option for those who have:
- Weakness
- Decreased endurance
- Balance issues
- Difficulty breathing
- Painful joints
- Fatigue that affects their ability to do daily tasks
This piece of equipment also makes the transfer into the bathtub easier, so anyone who might have trouble stepping over the tub’s threshold would benefit from its use. For example, someone who has balance problems from a stroke or someone who broke their hip and cannot stand for long periods of time would benefit from using a tub transfer bench.
Q: How do you use a tub transfer bench?
A: To use a bathtub transfer bench, the user should:
- Ensure the tub transfer bench is safely positioned in the tub
- Sit on the edge with their feet outside of the tub
- Scoot along the bench toward the center
- Lift their feet over the tub threshold to put them in the tub
Q: What are important safety features to look for when purchasing a tub transfer bench?
A: There are various safety features to consider when picking out a tub transfer bench:
- Arm rests can give additional support and an area to hold for safety.
- A backrest provides extra support and comfort when sitting on the bath transfer bench.
- Weight capacity of the chair is a key factor to look out for to ensure the user falls within the accepted weight range for use.
- Suction cup tips prevent the tub transfer bench from slipping in the bathtub.
Q: Can a tub transfer bench be used in a walk-in shower, too?
A: Yes, you can use a tub transfer bench in a shower as a seat to sit on. Another option would be to use a shower chair for support.
Q: Is a tub transfer bench covered by insurance?
A: It depends on your insurance plan. Medicare and Medicaid don’t cover tub transfer benches because they are viewed as a comfort item and not “medically necessary”. However, Medicare Advantage plans and other private health insurance plans may cover tub transfer benches. Check with your plan and call your insurance company for more details.
Q: Where can I buy one?
A: You can find a tub transfer bench at locations like:
- A drug store or pharmacy (like CVS Or Walgreens)
- A home improvement store in the bath and shower aisle
- Online retailers like medical supply websites, Amazon, and Walmart
- A durable medical equipment store
Q: What is the average cost?
A: The average cost of a tub transfer bench ranges between $50 and $200, depending on its size and materials. Heavy duty tub transfer benches will be more expensive due to their larger size and materials.
Q: Is it challenging to put together?
A: A tub transfer bench may be purchased or delivered in multiple pieces. Usually, no tools are needed, and simply following the assembly instructions is key. Often, the bench is delivered in full, and you would be responsible for assembling the adjustable legs, armrests, and backrest to the seat. Follow the instructions provided with your purchase. You can also ask your physical or occupational therapist to assist.
Q: How do I install the tub transfer bench?
A: Once the bath transfer bench is assembled, it’s time to install it. Here are some tips to follow to allow for an easy installation process:
- Ensure that the tub and floor outside of the tub are clean and clear of any floor mats before placing it.
- Place the tub bench in the bathtub, with two legs inside the tub and two legs outside of the tub. Press down on the tub transfer bench to engage the suction cup tips.
- Be sure that the seat is level, as sometimes the tub sits a little bit higher than the bathroom floor. If this is the case, the adjustable legs on the outside of the tub can be lengthened to keep the seat level.
- To keep water in the tub, you can cut two slits in the plastic shower curtain so it can slide through the outer crease in the tub bench. This will avoid getting water all over the bathroom floor and help prevent a fall.
Q: How should I clean the bath bench?
A: It’s key to wipe the tub transfer bench dry after every use to keep it clean from soap scum and to avoid mold from growing. Most often, it’s recommended to clean the tub transfer bench with warm water and soap. Bleach is not recommended and is too abrasive to clean the tub transfer bench. Check the specific instructions for the tub transfer bench you purchased.
Using a tub transfer bench is a key step in improving bathroom safety and preventing injury when your care recipient is taking a bath or shower. With the proper knowledge you’ve gained from this article, you can choose the best bath seating option to ensure safety when they’re using the bathroom and prevent slips, trips, or falls from happening.
References
- Senior Healthcare Solutions. (n.d.). Does Medicare cover bathroom safety equipment? Senior Healthcare Solutions. Retrieved November 23, 2024, from https://seniorhealthcaresolutions.com/blog/does-medicare-cover-bathroom-safety-equipment/
- HelpAdvisor. (2023, February 14). Does Medicare cover bathroom equipment? HelpAdvisor. Retrieved November 23, 2024, from https://www.helpadvisor.com/medicare/does-medicare-cover-bathroom-equipment
- American Red Cross. (2020, July 10). How to use a bath transfer bench. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOGtvkhon58
- American Red Cross. (2020, July 10). Bath transfer bench: Proper use and safety tips. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3BfbvaxErQ
- Canadian Red Cross. (n.d.). Instructions for care and use of a bath transfer bench. Canadian Red Cross. Retrieved November 23, 2024, from https://cdn.redcross.ca/prodmedia/crc/documents/How-We-Help/Community-Health-Services-in-Canada/Instructions-for-care-and-use-of-a-bath-transfer-bench.pdf
