Shower Seat

Important: This page was created to provide general information regarding commonly used and/or recommended devices and equipment. Some of these items might not be required initially but may be appropriate at a later stage, based on medical/rehabilitative team advice. Please continue to rely on the recommendations and training provided by your medical and rehabilitative team. Inappropriate use of equipment can lead to falls and/or injury.

Purpose: Allows an individual to stay seated while showering

Height Range: Varies depending on model, however most common height range seat <> floor 16 inches - 21 inches

Weight Range: A standard shower seat has a weight limit of 300-350LBs. Bariatric options up to 500LBs available.

Insurance Coverage: Not covered by insurance, FSA eligibility

Availability: Medical stores, Amazon, Major pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) (When purchasing equipment from Amazon, be sure to read the manufacturers return policy as medical equipment might have different policies)

Parts and Types

There are many different shower seats to choose from. For the purpose of this document, we will discuss the type of shower seat which provides back support as well as arm support. There are shower seats without a back and without arms, however these require a significant amount of sitting balance and endurance on the part of your care partner.

Parts included are:

• Adjustable legs

• Armrests

• Seat

• Back support/backrest

Critical Information

It is important to make sure all of the legs are adjusted to the exact same height to avoid the chair from tipping. It is helpful to do a ‘test run’ - try having your care partner sit on the shower seat to make sure the height is appropriate for them.

If your care partner is only able to reach back for the armrest with one arm, make sure they push down through the arm rest vs pushing out to the side to avoid the chair from tipping one way. An additional option to provide more safety is if you are able to stabilize the chair while assisting with the transfer. This would be helpful to review with your therapist.

Insurance Coverage

Unfortunately, this item is not covered by insurance. The one exception may be Medicaid; however, a letter of medical necessity is required, and you are limited to the type of device and brand which may be offered. This item is eligible for FSA.

Height Adjustment

To adjust the legs of the shower chair, push down on the adjustable pins to extend or shorten the legs - this will increase or decrease the height. Other shower chairs may have legs which adjust by being turned or ‘screwed and unscrewed’. Ideally, it is recommended that the bench height allows for the user to have their feet flat on the floor and their hips and knees at a 90-degree angle. Sometimes caregivers may choose to make the seat slightly higher to help with sitting and standing but your care partners feet should almost be able to be flat on the floor.