Stairs
Toilet
Riser
The toilet is generally the lowest surface in your home and back, hip or knee problems or general mobility problems can make getting on and off a low toilet challenging or unsafe. A toilet riser is an affordable option to modify an existing toilet. As far as design is concerned, toilet risers with arm rests or handles built in are not recommended because pushing up unevenly, with the right arm only for example, will often cause the riser to become unstable. Similarly, models that depend on a clamp type device for stability tend to loosen with use and become dangerous unless frequently tightened. Don’t forget to take your toilet shape (standard or elongated) into account!
Bolted, Hinged
Standard Toilet
Elongated Toilet
(click images for link)
Price: ~$55
Pros
Stability: To install you unscrew your toilet seat and bolt the seat and riser together back on with the longer bolts provided. Perfect for balance or stability issues.
Comfort: You will be sitting on your own toilet seat only higher.
Cons
Cleanliness: Some reports of difficulty cleaning the toilet with this installed, but manufacturer has since altered the design with a urine guard.
Price: Slightly more expensive than other models.
Unbolted
(click image for link)
Price: ~$25
Pros
Price: One of the most affordable options with good functionality.
Versatility: Most people claim it fits equally well in standard and elongated toilets. Easily removable.
Cons
Stability: Does not bolt in, instead rests snugly inside toilet bowl with non-slip padding. Occasional complaints of instability or poor fit, more common with unusual toilet bowl shapes.
Toilet
Safety
Frame
The toilet is likely one of the lowest sitting surfaces in your home. If you have concerns about sitting balance or difficulty lifting and lowering to and from the toilet some extra handholds can go a long way to decreasing reliance on caregivers. A toilet safety frame is a good option for people who want to minimize permanent alterations to their home like installing grab bars. This includes apartment dwellers, renters, or people that wish to avoid grab bars due to aesthetics.
Bolted
(click image for link)
Price: ~$37
Pros
Stability: Virtually all safety frames of this general design have a small amount of play in the arms, but this model has one of the highest rates of people praising it as rock solid and one of the lowest rates of people saying otherwise. This model is installed by unbolting the toilet seat and reinstalling the bolt through the seat and the base of the safety frame. Works well with toilet risers.
Versatility: Adjustable height, width and can be removed if no longer needed.
Cons
Price: Slightly more expensive than other similarly designed models, though likely worth the added stability.
Freestanding
(click image for link)
Price: ~$34
Pros
Stability: This design of safety frame has next to no movement in the arms making for an extremely steady support.
Cons
Side Approach: This safety frame presents a challenge for toilets that must be approached from the side as the ground support extends forward which can trip up shuffling feet or walker users.
Versatility: This model cannot be adjusted for width or height. Most users find it to be fine, but exceptionally tall or short users may have difficulty depending on toilet height.
Note: I recommend these specific products based on what I’ve seen in my professional experience working with people who have benefited from using them, as well as comparing online reviews, ratings and features to maximize the chance that the specific product models linked here will be a good fit for you. If you choose to purchase products through these links I will receive a small commission, though there is no extra cost to you.
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