What is the difference between a toilet seat and a commode?
We’re all familiar with what a toilet seat is. But what is a commode? A commode is considered an incontinence aid, which are products that help those with waste incontinence or involuntary leakage of waste. These portable toilets are usually found in hospitals, hospices or even in home care for elderly people or those with limited mobility who struggle to go to the toilet every time.
If you’re thinking about getting a commode for you or a loved one with mobility issues, continue reading to know more about it and whether it’s the right choice
Bathroom safety
One of the main concerns of caregivers for those with mobility issues is bathroom safety. There’s always an increased risk of accidents in bathrooms due to slippery surfaces and limited space. Sure, there are bathroom modifications available to make it accessible and safer, but for those people with disabilities that need to frequently use the toilet, a raised toilet seat or a commode will not only make their trips safer, it will also be more convenient.
Installing a toilet seat risers
A toilet seat riser is a bathroom mobility aid that goes on top of the toilet bowl to increase its height. They are particularly useful for those people with limited mobility and have difficulty sitting down at low level such as toilet seats.
Since this product is for ensuring safety, it’s best to have a professional install it properly since it’ll be supporting most of the user’s body weight. A professional can also ensure that the seat doesn’t tip to the side or forward that can cause accidents.
Using a commode
Compared to a toilet seat riser, a commode isn’t connected to a plumbing system. It has a concealed container underneath that is emptied out when need be. A commode chair is often designed to look like a normal chair to avoid any embarrassment that the user is using one.
Recommended Products
Types of toilet seat risers
There are 5 different types of toilet seat risers such as:
- Standard toilet seat risers: The most common type and are typically made out of plastic or metal.
- Padded toilet seat risers: Padded toilet seat risers are to provide additional comfort.
- Elongated toilet seat risers: For elongated toilet seats that wouldn’t be adequately covered by the standard seat riser.
- Raised toilet seats with arms: Installed with arms for additional support and stability
- Portable toilet seat risers: For easier transportation
Features of a commode
When looking for a commode over toilet seat, it’s best to look for one with the following features:
- Seat and lid: The commode must have a comfortable seat and lid for hygiene
- Overflow drain: A feature that prevents water from overflowing
- Base or foot support: The commode must be supported by a sturdy base and legs
- Easy to clean and durable materials: Choose a commode that is made of ceramic or porcelain for durability and easy cleaning.
- Accessibility features: Some commodes come with raised seats or handles for support. This is particularly beneficial for those individuals with mobility limitations.
Comparing toilet seats and commodes
When comparing toilet seats and commodes, it’s important to consider the mobility limitations of the user.
Support
A toilet seat riser might not be enough to support individuals with mobility challenges while commodes which are especially designed for accessibility, come with additional support.
Features
Commodes come with extra features such as armrests, backrest, adjustable legs, portability, etc.
To compare, toilet seats serve its basic function, while a commode can significantly improve the bathroom experience of individuals with mobility limitations.
Cost and accessibility
The cost and accessibility of toilet seats and commodes vary because of different factors. Basic toilet seats are more affordable and can be bought almost anywhere. Commodes on the other hand can be costlier. There are standard commodes and specialized commodes such as a 3 in 1 electric shower chair transfer commode which can fetch for a hefty price tag.
Cost and accessibility for commodes might be significantly different from toilet seat risers but the benefits they provide are invaluable. At the end of the day, the choice between the two depends on budget, personal needs and importance of extra features for accessibility.
Conclusion
Gilani Mobility is a mobility solutions specialist that provides not only bathroom and shower aids for safer and accessible bathrooms, but also manual and electric wheelchairs such as bariatric electric wheelchair, wheelchair accessories and other assistive aids.
