Choosing Equipment
Bathroom Safety Equipment: What You Need and What Insurance Covers
The bathroom is where most falls at home happen: wet floors, low toilets and stepping over a tub wall are a risky combination, especially after surgery or for older adults. The right equipment makes a big difference.
For bathing
- Shower chair: a seat for walk-in showers, with or without a back. Best for people who can step into the shower but can't stand for long.
- Tub transfer bench: straddles the side of the tub so you sit down outside the tub and slide across, with no stepping over the tub wall. Best if you have a bathtub.
- Handheld shower head: lets you wash while seated.
- Grab bars: wall-mounted bars for support getting in and out.
For toileting
- Raised toilet seat: adds 2–5 inches of height so sitting and standing take less effort. Common after hip and knee replacement.
- Toilet safety frame: armrests around the toilet to push up from.
- 3-in-1 commode: works as a bedside commode, a raised toilet seat over the toilet, or a safety frame. One of the most useful items for recovery at home.
What does insurance cover?
- Original Medicare generally covers bedside commodes when you can't safely get to the toilet, but usually does not cover shower chairs, tub benches, raised toilet seats or grab bars, which it considers convenience items.
- Medicare Advantage plans may offer extra benefits for bathroom safety items. It depends on the plan.
- Florida Medicaid and managed Medicaid plans may cover some items with a prescription.
- Workers' comp carriers often cover bathroom safety equipment after a work injury.
Even when insurance doesn't pay, most bathroom safety items are affordable to purchase. We'll check your plan and give you the price up front.
Which do you need?
Tell us about your bathroom (walk-in shower or tub, toilet height, doorway width) and your mobility, and we'll recommend the right setup. Browse bathroom safety equipment or call 954-332-4378.
This article is general information. Coverage depends on your plan, and we verify your benefits before delivery.
