Gerontologic Environmental Modifications >> Injury Prevention



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	Bathing safety equipment
		Choosing the right bath seat
		Handheld showerheads
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Bathing Safety Equipment

	Showerhead Installation
	Recommended Handheld Showerhead

Recommended Handheld Showerhead

The "Home Mods Monthly Committee" of The National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification (www.homemods.org) recommends the Alson's Model #462PB (Push Button) for its ease of use and reliability. This unit is offered as either a kit, complete with hose and mounting hardware, or by individual pieces (hose, shower head, bracket) at local home stores, including Home Depot and Lowes (Note: this model is sold under the "Delta" name at Home Depot and Lowes Home Stores).


	Photo Courtesy of Alsons Corporation

Cost is $13 - $50, depending on whether you buy just the hand held shower head or the entire kit.


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Questions to ask before purchasing a handheld showerhead:

Is the handle textured and contoured for easy grasping, especially if you have limited hand strength?

Is there a large on/off push button on the side of the handle? This feature reduces the flow of water to a trickle and then on again at the same temperature. This is both a convenience and safety feature: when shampooing hair, it is easier and safer to stop and start the flow of water without having to lean forward to adjust the volume at the faucets.

Does the unit come with a long hose (80" - 84") so you can reach behind and wash your back areas, or do you need to buy one separately?

Does the handheld shower come with a wall-mounted bracket or do you need to buy one separately?

Have you purchased Teflon tape to wrap around the existing shower pipe to keep it from leaking?

If you are purchasing a wall-mounted track to adjust the height of the showerhead, consider a textured knob that is more easily grasped than a smooth knob.