Re: Resedential and Home care service

[SadieMoon]

Sarah-Jane
    I am just curious to know, where are you?
     Here is a little of what I have learned over the years.  
    1.  Most people don't need the official "transfer tub bench" with two
legs out of the tub and two in.  I love the seats made by rubbermaid and the
basic shower seat without a back is very versatile.  I have a very kind
equipment supplier who sells me these for $30. If their tub is too narrow, I
just put it in sideways, and that works fine.  Even though I don't use the
transfer bench, I teach them to back up to the tub, sit down on the bench,
and then get their feet in after they are seated, wash up, and then get their
feet out before they attempt to stand.  
      2.  I install handheld showers a lot and it is really easy.  You need
teflon tape, a pipe wrench, and scissors.  I use a diverter valve and in
this, I do not like the rubbermaid because it is that plastic that looks like
chrome, but hardware stores carry metal ones ( about $15 ) and a simple
handheld shower with no different types of spray, but it does have a "pause
button.  There is one made by rubbermaid and one by master plumber   (both
around $17).    
       3.  If they don't currently have any shower, you can try a tub
diverter spout, but this is harder and I did break a lady's plumbing once
trying this (her son and I were able to repair it with advice and supplies
from a building place)
        4.  Grab bars. I realize there is a liability issue, but I use a
stud finder and I am doing this to help people, so I guess I take a chance.  
I  use the tiniest drill bit and the biggest screw I can, and I always get
into wood, so I feel pretty confident that my grab bars aren't going
anywhere.  If their house is really nice and doesn't look like it needs any
unforseen holes then I ask them to get a carpenter.  Or, I sue a clamp on
grab bar at the back of the tub, behind the seat.  
       5.  Of course, all this has to be customized to the client, the
caregiver, and the bathroom, but it might give you a little hint.
     -- Jody