Explore the Different Types of Shower Seats for Seniors

Far too many individuals struggle with safety and accessibility within their homes, especially when it comes to the shower. A bathroom remodel can help, but it can also be a costly, time-consuming, and downright messy endeavor. If you’re searching for a solution, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel has the answer: shower seats. If that sounds too good (or just too simple) to be true, consider just how enjoyable your shower experience would be if you could remain comfortable the entire time without the worry of a slip-and-fall accident.  

What Are the Different Types of Shower Seats for Seniors? 

There are a few different types of shower seats, each with their own individual benefits. If you’re interested in adding a senior-friendly shower seat to your bathing space, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can recommend the option that’s best suited to your specific needs. 

Standalone Shower Chairs 

Some homeowners with walk-in showers choose to purchase a standalone chair, allowing them to take it in and out of the shower as desired. However, the portability of these products makes them less stable than some other options. It also means you’ll have to find somewhere to store the chair should you choose to remove it from the shower at any point, and the various materials these chairs are made of means it may require some attention to keep clean. 

Fold-Down Shower Seats 

A folding shower seat is the perfect way to save space and add built-in comfort, especially with top-of-the-line options from Jacuzzi Bath Remodel. Our movable shower seats allow you to customize where you sit, and we can even include a movable showerhead as well for complete freedom. With an ergonomic design, these shower seats provide the ultimate level of safety and comfort. 

Bench-Style Shower Seats 

Another shower seat option is a bench-style seat, which is essentially a ledge built into the shower. This type can’t be stowed away or folded down like other options, but it is wider and if not being used as a seat, it can be used to hold toiletries. Because it cannot be hidden, however, this is not the best option if you plan on ever placing your home on the market. 

Additional Jacuzzi® Bathroom Safety Ideas 

While adding a shower seat is a great way to improve the safety and accessibility of your bathroom, it isn’t the only way. Jacuzzi Bath Remodel provides an array of bathroom safety features that can improve your quality of life, including: 

• ADA-compliant grab bars for extra stability where it matters most 

• Customized storage accessories to keep your belongings within reach 

• Low- and no-threshold walk-in shower replacements to make entering and exiting the shower a breeze 

• Jacuzzi® hydrotherapy showers with slip-resistant floors 

What’s more, Jacuzzi® showers are constructed with a nonporous acrylic material infused with silver ions that prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. This makes these showers remarkably easy to clean, so you won’t have to worry about bending over to scrub any stubborn grout lines or subject yourself to the smell of harsh chemicals. And since they come with a limited lifetime warranty, you can have complete peace of mind in your investment. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can Shower Seats Be Adjusted for Height? 

If you’re adding a senior-friendly shower seat to your bathing space, you’ll want to make sure that it’s at the correct height for the person using it. After all, if you have to stand on your tip-toes to reach a too-high seat or bend down to reach a too-low seat, it will negate any safety benefits that the seat offered in the first place.  

Fortunately, many shower seats can be adjusted for height. Many of the standalone shower seats mentioned above are designed to be adjustable (also be sure to move the backrest, armrests, and footrests to a comfortable position, if possible). Fold-down shower seats can also be installed at the height of your choosing. If you opt to purchase a Jacuzzi® shower seat, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel will work with you to determine that your seat is installed at exactly the right height. 

What Features Should I Look for in a Shower Seat for Seniors? 

When shopping for a safe shower seat for seniors, there are numerous factors you’ll need to consider, including: 

• Size – Choose a shower seat that will comfortably fit into your bathing space. 

• Height – Find a shower seat that’s either adjustable or already set at the correct height. 

• Weight-bearing capacity – Select a shower seat that’s strong enough to support your weight. 

• Stability – Choose a sturdy shower seat so that you don’t have to worry about it tipping over or collapsing while you’re bathing. 

• Material – Pick a shower seat that’s made from water-resistant, rust-proof materials. 

• Color – If you have a hard time seeing, opt for a shower seat that stands out from the rest of your bathing enclosure so that you can easily distinguish it. 

How Do I Maintain & Clean a Shower Seat for Seniors? 

It’s important to keep up with cleaning your shower seat to prevent the growth of dangerous mold, mildew, and bacteria. Be sure to follow any manufacturer-specific instructions, but with that said, try to rinse and wipe it down after every use and give it a more thorough cleaning at least once a week. When you do so, rinse away any cleaning products to avoid irritating your skin the next time you use the seat. Also, if your shower seat features a removable cushion or cover, wring it out after each use and throw it in the washing machine at least once a week. 

Get Started Today 

Don’t settle for a shower that puts your safety at risk any longer than you have to—turn to Jacuzzi Bath Remodel for the solutions you need. Whether you simply choose a new shower seat or opt for a fully custom shower replacement, we’ve got you covered with our bathroom remodeling solutions. Contact us today to learn more and discover how we can transform your bathroom in as little as one day.