For many older people, remaining independent is very important. Staying in a much loved home provides comfort and happiness but it can be harder as we age. There are many mobility problems to face, such as using steps and getting in and out of the bath. However, there are various accessories, such as modular steps, that can help to deal with these difficulties. One of these is a portable step stool.
What is a portable step stool?
A portable step stool does pretty much what it says on the tin: it’s a small step that can be carried around. Often step stools have a handle. This not only makes it easier to carry but provides an extra level of safety as it can be leaned on during use. Because it is designed for the purpose, a step stool is much safer than standing on a box or a chair. They often have a grippy surface and feet to make them safer and easier to use.
If an elderly person still has good balance, a step stool will be very handy. It can help them maintain their autonomy and independence by enabling them to keep doing things by themselves. For example, they can be used to reach areas that need cleaning, stopping a house falling into disrepair.
Where can they be used at home?
Step stool are ideal for places where someone is struggling to reach things. As we age, our bodies change and we can’t reach and stretch as we used to. This makes it difficult to reach places we used to be able to, like the top of cupboards or area behind the sink. We may also have trouble holding and moving large or heavy things. Having a step stool adds extra height and therefore control, making tasks like taking heavy bowls from kitchen shelves much easier. In the kitchen it also enables people to clean thoroughly, which in turns keeps food preparation areas hygienic and safe.
Bathrooms are also good places for step stool use. As well as enabling easy cleaning and reaching for high shelves, they can help with using the bathroom. Getting in and out of the bath can become more difficult as we age, as can stepping into the shower. A step stool can help with these, enabling someone to keep using their bathroom. Purchasing a step stool with a rubber top and rubber grips on the feet is a good idea for the bathroom, as water and steam can make surfaces slippery.
Step stools are also useful for getting on and off furniture in the rest of the home. For example, elderly or less mobile people may struggle with getting in or out of bed. Step stools with grabbing handles are extra useful when positioned next to a bed as they can assist with sitting up. The same is true for chairs and sofa – being able to grab a handle adds an extra level of safety and stability. This will help the user feel comfortable and confident about moving around their home.