Toilet equipment
There is a range of equipment available to help you use the toilet more easily in your home. These include toilet frames, raised toilet seats and portable toilets called commodes.
What to consider before choosing toilet equipment
Before you hire or purchase equipment:
- Decide what is important for you. Consider if you would prefer a padded seat for comfort, need a regular seat with or without armrests, or if you need your equipment to be portable.
- Check if the equipment is height adjustable. When using the toilet, you should be able to sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor.
- If you use mobility aids such as a walking frame, check there is enough room to safely maneouvre around the toilet area once the toilet equipment is installed.
- Make sure you have enough room either side of the toilet to install the equipment if it has armrests.
- Check your body can comfortably fit into the frame
- Check whether the equipment has a maximum weight capacity. Your healthcare provider will check you are using the right equipment for your weight if the equipment has been provided.
If you need help deciding on the most appropriate equipment for your needs, contact your healthcare provider or a business that supplies disability and mobility equipment.
Options for toilet equipment
Toilet frame
An over-toilet frame has a plastic toilet seat that raises the height of the toilet seat. It also has armrests to help you get on and off the toilet.
Toilet frames are used to raise the height of the seat and provide stability.
Toilet surround
A toilet surround is a frame you put around the toilet which has armrests to provide support when you get on and off the toilet. It does not change the height of the seat.
Commodes
A commode is a portable toilet. You may need a commode if you:
- have limited mobility
- need to use the toilet quickly
- find it difficult to get to the bathroom
- find it difficult to use your regular toilet.
Raised toilet seat
A raised toilet seat fits on the toilet bowl and is held in place by brackets.
They come in different heights ranging from 2 inches (50mm) to 6 inches (150mm). The best height for you will depend on your height, the height of your existing toilet and your personal needs.
Raised toilet seats may come with or without arm rests. If you choose the type without arms but need assistance to sit down or stand up, you could consider installing handrails to the wall.
Raised toilet seat fitted over toilet bowl.
Installing and using toilet equipment
- If the equipment has armrests, where possible use 2 hands when pushing up from sit to stand as this will stop it tipping.
- Adjust the height of the equipment to ensure you are able to sit comfortably with your feet flat on the floor when using the toilet. Make sure all 4 legs are the same height. Refer to the manufacturers instructions provided.
- Toilet equipment will be in contact with moisture and body fluids so will need to be cleaned regularly. If you need to remove the equipment for cleaning, ensure it is installed properly again before using.
- If equipment has been installed correctly, it should not move or wobble. Raised toilets seats should be firmly fitted to the toilet — regularly check they are securely attached.
Buying your equipment
Age Concern has a directory of businesses and organisations that supply disability and mobility equipment for people of all ages.