Using the Toilet

• Many of the same problems a stroke patient may face when entering the bathtub or shower are associated with using the toilet. Therefore, the similar use of a cane, walker, wheelchair, scooter, handrails, or grab bars can help an individual to stabilize herself when sitting on and getting up from the toilet. In addition, the floor surrounding the toilet should not be slick. If bath rugs are in front of a toilet, they should have some sort of backing to prevent sliding, such as non-skid tape.

• Changing the height of the toilet may make using the toilet less difficult. A raised toilet seat or a toilet seat riser reduces the distance from a standing to sitting position so a person does not have to squat or bend down as far to reach the seat. Risers are usually made of plastic and can be placed on top of the toilet seat or between the seat and toilet rim. Some have grab bars attached or are part of a commode chair.

• A three in one commode chair has three features: a raised seat, grab bars on both sides of the chair, and a removable bucket. This proves to be very useful for an individual who has difficulty getting to the bathroom, as it can be kept nearby the bed or sitting area. The grab bars on either side can prevent a person from falling and also can be used to push up on or lower the body down to the seat. This combination chair can also be used over an existing toilet with the bucket removed.

• Because accidents are often unavoidable, it is a good idea to keep a pair of clean garments in all bathrooms. Stroke survivors may also feel more comfortable if they wear disposable under-garments. Dealing With Incontinence, Stroke Family Caregiving For African Americans includes helpful suggestions on what can be done to help the stroke survivor feel more comfortable about this condition and how to make it appear less noticeable.