How High Should A Raised Toilet Seat Be?

DIY Security Systems

The bathroom can be a risky place for a senior with mobility issues, so choosing the right raised toilet seat and knowing how high should a raised toilet seat be are extremely important. Whether it is difficult for them to bend down or they struggle to get up, a raised toilet seat can be a great help. The most common usage of a raised toilet is for seniors with mobility issues, patients with low strength, and poor balance. For these people, a raised toilet seat can make going to the bathroom safer, more comfortable, and secure.

A raised toilet seat could be a big help if you’re living with an older relative who has difficulty sitting down and standing up. Raised (or elevated) toilet seats lessen the distance that a person has to move when they sit down on the toilet. Raising the toilet seat just a few inches can make a big difference for someone who finds it challenging to sit and stand. So, how high should a raised toilet seat be?

Features of a Raised Toilet Seat

Before we specify how high should a raised toilet seat be, let’s first learn the different considerations and features you need to look into before purchasing a raised toilet seat:

• Arm support (removable or permanent)
  Support arms are a must if your relative needs to put weight on something when they stand up or sit down. They can provide extra stability and peace of mind.
• Clamping mechanism
  High-quality raised toilet seats have a clamp-on mechanism that makes them easier to add and remove.
• Slip-resistant pads
  When you’re looking for extra safety features, a slip-resistant pad on the toilet seat can make it a bit safer for you to use it.
• Slip in brackets
  These are especially helpful for people suffering from a leg or knee injury.

What Toilet Shape will the Seat Be Used on?

Make sure that your toilet seat is the same size as your toilet bowl. There are two regular types of toilet seats, the round front (roughly 16.5″ long) and the elongated one (roughly 18.5″ long). It’s quite easy to tell by looking at your toilet seat, so before heading to the store, make sure you know the type of toilet you have.

It’s also essential to take into account your bathroom space. If your toilet is wedged between the sink and the shower, it might not have enough space to accommodate a wider raised toilet seat.

So, how high should a raised toilet seat be? The answer to this question depends on the mobility and height and of the person who will use it. Raised toilets seats can range from 2 to 6 inches on top of the original toilet seat. There are also some wider options available than the regular toilet seats. Consider the height, mobility, and comfort level of the person using the raised toilet seat before choosing a size. It’s also possible to get raised toilet seats with adjustable heights and widths if you’re unsure which size to get.

Other Considerations

• For people who require a raised toilet seat for a short period and need minimal help in getting up and down, you can opt for a non-locking raised toilet seat, which only rests on top but is not locked or screwed in. When considering this option, note that it is not firmly secured on the toilet and can be a concern for those with low mobility. In such situations, a grab bar can be helpful, providing support for increased steadiness.
• For those who need more stability, an elevated toilet seat that can be locked in place is recommended. They provide a safer option for those who are less stable on their own since they are firmly fixed onto the toilet. Consider how high should a raised toilet seat be to ensure comfort, especially for the older ones.