Bathroom adaptive equipment is often overlooked as a potential need for a family until it is almost too late. Whether the child has gotten too heavy to lift and manage for bathing or the caregiver has a hurt back. The best time to secure adaptive equipment for the bathroom is before it gets to that point. Generally, it is recommended to start using a bath chair when a child no longer fits into an infant tub and is unable to sit independently. It is also highly recommended to use a bath seat with any child that is prone to seizures to assist with decreasing risk of injury. Toileting equipment is recommended when it is age appropriate to begin toilet training; a child shows interest or intent towards toileting, or when a child is not able to sit on the toilet safely or independently in order to complete toileting activities.

Purpose:
What is the goal and purpose of the adaptive equipment? Is it bathing and toileting, just bathing or just toileting? Once a purpose is identified, explore equipment that is designed to for that function.

What will the space allow?
Which equipment will fit into the bathroom space? Does the bathroom equipment need to be stored in-between uses to accommodate bathroom access for the entire family?

What types of postural supports are available and needed?
Bathroom equipment comes with a variety of positioning options to offer as much or as little support is needed.

Consider the potential for growth and future expectations.
Is this bath equipment going to be able to last for 5 years with regards to growth? Explore equipment that has a growth kit option or purchase it with growth in mind. Will this equipment meet positioning and transfer needs 1- 5 years from now? Will it be too difficult to lower a child into a bathtub or try and hold a child on the toilet? Also, consider all future surgeries. For example, a new g-tube placement can significantly change a child’s size in both weight and length in a short amount of time.

What are the funding options?
Adaptive toileting systems may be covered by traditional insurance and Medicaid programs. Additional options include the state funded waiver programs, community organizations, grants, fund raisers and purchase registries like the Tadpole Adaptive Registry.     

If at any time, it becomes too confusing or difficult to navigate through the world of bathroom equipment or any other piece of equipment, please do not hesitate to contact us here at Tadpole Adaptive. We are always willing to provide unbiased and informed guidance.