Bath Hoist Purchasing: 5 Mistakes to Avoid From a Physical Therapist Perspective

The baby boomers are growing in age and these individuals will see an increased desire for mobility devices and supplies to aid in their activities of daily living (ADLs). While this may involve something minor such as a raised toilet seat or grab bars installed to assist in the shower, a more heavy duty device such as a bath hoist may become a necessity depending on the severity of one's limitations.

There's a decent chance a friend or loved one in the baby boomer age group will seek your advice on the topic of mobility devices in the future. While it may seem like a simple task to research the proper device, the reality is there are so many options available both in store and online that it can become difficult. Purchasing an improper device can actually exacerbate one's condition and be a safety hazard. Buying an improperly fit lift or hoist could lead to a hit not only to one's body but also their wallet. Below is a list of five mistakes to avoid when one is ready to make this type of purchase.

1) Not Doing the Proper Research- Each disorder has its own needs and this should be researched before offering advice. Suggesting a standard bathtub lift for someone who is borderline obese will not give the weight support needed to ensure safety. Make sure to know the capacity and dimensions for each lift device.

2) Being Cheap-- We all love a good bargain. As consumers we like to purchase items on sale or believe to be of value even if that item may not be the best for the situation. When it comes to mobility equipment, the rule of thumb is that you get what you pay for. For example, a new lower end lift bath hoist might cost $400 which may seem like a great deal. However, this type of bath device might not have a swivel seat nor a remote control which should be standard for anyone who truly wants a reliable and safe piece of equipment. Don't start pinching pennies when it comes to safety and mobility.

3) Waiting Too Long- A common issue that arises is the embarrassment that accompanies using a mobility device. Many people view using a bath hoist as being crippled or having a negative connotation associated with it. Because of this, people tend to wait too long to buy which costs themselves saving further decline in their status. Don't let this happen to you.

4) Not Taking Measurements - The most common complaint that arises after buying a device is that it doesn't fit right. While this indeed can arise from poor communication or purchasing error, most likely it stems from not taking body measurements before ordering. The number of people who are lazy and don't take simple measurements is dumbfounding and causes eventual problems down the road with poor fit.

5) Not Consulting with a Professional - With higher priced items such as disabled bath lifts, purchasing blindly without professional consultation is risky. Spending sums of money on a device without really knowing if it is appropriate would be irresponsible. Consulting with a physical therapist or other mobility pro would be wise if someone you know is looking to make a higher end mobility device purchase such as a bath hoist. Doing so might save not only money but also aggravation in the end.