Help Getting In and Out of the Bath: EA Mobility’s Expert Guide

Bathing should be soothing—not a feat of balance and upper‑body strength. Yet one in three UK adults aged 65+ will fall at least once a year, and accidents are most common in or near the bath or shower.

At EA Mobility we’ve spent 20 years turning risky bathrooms into safe, beautiful spaces. Below you’ll find a step‑by‑step technique for standard tubs, a deep dive into every type of bath aid (from simple cushions to powered hoists), plus pro tips on choosing the right solution.

Why the Bath Becomes a Challenge

The goal is not merely to “cope”, but to remove the hazard—either with targeted bathing aids or a fully accessible installation.

Quick Safety Checklist (print & keep by the sink)

1. Dry floors first – keep two absorbent mats within reach.
2. Test water temp – thermostatically‑controlled fillers avoid scalds.
3. Keep aids within arm’s reach – seat, grab bar, or remote for a bath lift.
4. Never rush – sit, breathe, and move one limb at a time.
5. Stay connected – a cordless phone or fall alarm should be on a nearby shelf.

Step‑by‑Step: Getting Out of a Standard Bath (With or Without Help)

Tip: Practise the moves on a bed first; the height is similar but without the water.

1. Position the bath seat or cushion under your hips before you lie back.
2. When finished, bend knees and roll to one side so both hands press on the tub edge.
3. Slide to a side‑sit, legs still inside.
4. Plant both palms on the rim or a fixed grab bar, lean forward and bring one knee under you.
5. Push upright onto both knees; keep chest over hands for stability.
6. Bring the stronger leg out first onto a non‑slip mat, then the second leg.
7. Stand slowly, head up, and use a nearby frame, rail or caregiver’s support.

Caregivers should stand on the bath’s open side, offering their forearm as a support rail rather than pulling on wrists or clothing.

7 Bath‑Aid Categories That Make a Real Difference

1 — Bath Seats, Chairs & Cushions

• Static bath seats clip to the tub for a 6–8 cm height boost.

• Swivel seats rotate 90° so you sit > swivel > lower.

• Inflatable cushions (e.g., Mangar Bathing Cushion) raise/lowers at the press of a button—great when upper‑body strength is limited but you still prefer a full soak.

EA Mobility insider: Our walk‑in baths with integrated power seat combine a 150 kg lifting column with a gently reclined backrest for spa‑level comfort.

2 — Grab Bars, Grips & Rails

Choose rust‑proof stainless or high‑grip plastic, 300–600 mm in length, fixed horizontally or vertically where shoulder‑level leverage feels natural. Discreet “2‑in‑1” rails double as towel bars or corner shelves to keep décor sleek.

3 — Steps & Stands

Look for:

• 40 mm height increments so you can stack until the rim feels comfortable.

• Rubberised feet that splay outward for extra base width.

• Side handles for one‑handed support.

4 — Bath Lifts & Hoists

5 — Transfer Benches & Boards

If leg strength is the limiting factor, sliding benches let you stay seated while gliding over the rim. Pair with a handheld shower for a safe seated wash.

6 — Walk‑In Baths & Easy‑Access Showers

Walk‑in baths feature outward‑ or inward‑opening doors with a 6–8 cm threshold. Options include hydrotherapy jets, heated backrests and chromotherapy lighting.
Prefer to stand? A level‑access shower tray (or a true wet‑room floor) removes every raised edge.

EA Mobility’s walk‑in installations carry a lifetime seal warranty and a 4.9★ Which? Trusted Trader rating.

7 — Complementary Accessories

• Full‑length anti‑slip mats with mould‑inhibiting Microban®.

• Temperature‑limit mixer taps pre‑set at 38 °C.

• Fold‑down shower seats with 190 kg load rating.

Choosing the Right Solution (A 3‑Minute Quiz)

Can you raise each knee 25 cm?

1. • Yes: start with a grab bar + bath step.

   • Sometimes: consider a swivel seat or transfer bench.

   • No: look at bath lifts or a door‑cut walk‑in bath.

Upper‑body strength to push up from seated?

1. • Good: static bath chair works.

   • Poor: powered seat or hoist recommended.

Vision or balance issues?

• • Prioritise level‑access showers with sturdy, contrasting rails.

FAQ Snippets (add as FAQPage schema for extra SERP real‑estate)

How can I help someone with arthritis get out of the bath?
Use a cushion‑style bath lift paired with two offset grab rails so the wrists stay straight, reducing joint strain.

What’s the weight limit for walk‑in bath seats?
EA Mobility’s powered seats are rated to 150 kg; static seats to 200 kg.

Is an inflatable bathtub safe for seniors?
Portable “blow‑up” tubs are fine for temporary use but lack rigid grab points—install a firm transfer bench for daily bathing.

Next Steps: Talk to the Experts

• Request a free home assessment – we’ll measure, design, and quote on the spot.

• Request a free brochure for detailed specs.

• Call 0800 955 8810

EA Mobility – creating beautiful, accessible bathrooms that let you stay independent at ho