Etac Cloo height-adjustable raised toilet seat with armrests

Standing up and sitting down can be challenging for someone with reduced mobility. A raised toilet seat can make bathroom routines easier and more enjoyable, and sometimes be the difference between independence and dependence.

Simply raising the toilet seat a few cm decreases the distance between sitting and standing, which alleviates the need for support or transfers. It also improves safety and reduces the risk for fall accidents. When needed, armrests can be added for further support and security.

For many people, a raised toilet seat is the first assistive device introduced to the household. This makes it especially important to choose the right one, so the user gets a positive experience and finds it helpful in daily life.

At The Independence Shop, we supply a range of raised toilet seats:
- BetterLiving Adjustable Toilet Seat Raiser
- Etac Cloo Height-adjustable Raised Toilet Seat with Armrests
- Etac Hi-Loo Raised Toilet Seat with Armrests

We know that toilet aids can be a sensitive subject. Assistive devises can be a “private matter” and having them on display can make people feel self-conscious. Considerations of visual appeal and modest design of a raised toilet seat are important. Appearances should never stand in the way of someone’s quality of life.

Raised toilet seats come in various designs and heights to accommodate different needs. Some attach to the existing toilet seat, while others replace the entire toilet seat.

In most circumstances, we want the legs of the user's feet to sit flush on the floor when seated on the toilet seat, and for the knees to be level to the hips. If the toilet seat is too low, the legs are bent at too much of an angle and the knees are not level with the hips – this can cause an uncomfortable posture and the user can have difficulty transferring.

To determine the correct height to raise a toilet seat:
1. Measure from the back of the person’s knee to the floor.
2. Measure the height of the toilet porcelain from the floor (excluding the seat).
3. Subtract the toilet measurement from the person’s knee height.
4. The difference between the two measurements indicates the raised toilet seat height needed.

Consider the user's mobility:
The user might have specific conditions that influence which seat to choose. For example, someone with balance challenges will benefit from armrests, whereas someone in a wheelchair might want just one armrest to allow for side transfers onto the seat. A person who struggles particularly with standing up or sitting down, for example following hip surgery, can choose a seat that can be set with a slight anterior tilt.

Consideration of space:
If bathroom space is limited, raised toilet seats that are attached to the toilet take up less space than freestanding models. If the toilet is close to a wall, one arm support can be removed to save space. Mounting access might also be limited, where a seat with brackets could be the best choice.

Some raised toilet seats come with armrests, some are adjustable to different heights, some have a splash guard to prevent spills.

At The Independence Shop, we supply a range of raised toilet seats:
- BetterLiving Adjustable Toilet Seat Raiser
- Etac Cloo Height-adjustable Raised Toilet Seat with Armrests
- Etac Hi-Loo Raised Toilet Seat with Armrests

All three raised toilet seats offer great flexibility for existing and changing needs. The handle armrests offer support, safety and comfort; but these can also be removed to suit. They have various height options and can fit most or all toilet bowls. We find the incorporated splash guard on the raised toilet seats practical and hygienic, given the new height between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl itself when raising a toilet seat.

The choice of a specific type depends on individual needs, budget, short- or long-term use, and the existing toilet's design. When considering to use a raised toilet seat, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional such as an occupational therapist to determine the most suitable raised toilet seat.