Tips for Choosing the Best Raised Toilet Seat

Most people will require assistance getting up from the toilet at some point. Everyone’s needs differ, so a lift that may work for one person may not suit another. With all the available toileting products, how do you know which is the best raised toilet seat for your unique needs? Here are a few considerations for choosing the right toileting solution.

Mobility Level

Mobility is one of the most significant factors in selecting a proper toileting aid. Simple over or on-seat toilet risers may be a good solution for people with minor mobility limitations. These types of aids are inexpensive and easy to install. For instance, someone who recently had knee surgery but expects to recover within a short period could benefit from using a raised toilet seat while they recover.

More significant support is needed for individuals with moderate to severe mobility restrictions and ongoing mobility challenges. Toilet lifts, like the LiftSeat Power Toilet Lift, provide maximum support, lifting the user from the toilet and returning them to standing. With this type of toileting aid, little to no assistance is required, minimizing fall/injury risk to both user and caregiver.

When assessing mobility, it is essential to evaluate current mobility and consider expected future mobility. Mobility may decline with disease progression or age, so it’s best to prepare for more significant mobility challenges by investing in tools (like a toilet lift) that can accommodate changing needs. 
 

Seat Height

One of the most common search queries when researching a raised toilet is “What is the tallest raised toilet seat”? Raising the toilet height by placing a riser beneath the toilet or a raised toilet seat on top makes it easier to get on and off the toilet - but only for individuals who need minimal assistance. Toilet risers that sit on or under the toilet do not raise the user to standing, no matter how tall the riser is. A powered toilet lift is the only toileting aid that can raise the user to a fully standing position. 

Toilet lifts are measured in two heights: lifting and seating. Lifting height is the height when fully extended in the upward position. Seating height is the height when fully lowered in the downward position. Both are necessary measurements to consider. If the lifting height isn’t high enough, the lift may not raise the user to a fully standing position. Alternatively, if the seating height is too high, a user cannot touch the ground when seated (this goes for raised toilet seats and under toilet risers too) and may slide off the lift when tilted.

LiftSeat Power Toilet Lifts can accommodate individuals of varying heights, from short to tall. The LiftSeat Independence I Toilet Lift has the lowest seating height available and is made for individuals under 5’5” tall. The LiftSeat Independence IV Toilet Lift has a taller seat height, raises farther to suit taller individuals, and can support up to 400 lbs. 

Available Accessories and Customization

Customization is another important consideration. Handles make getting up and down much easier, whether you opt for a raised toilet seat or a power toilet lift. Some individuals add grab bars near the toilet, but a raised toilet seat with handles (that are built-in) is often easier to use and doesn’t require separate installation. All LiftSeat Power Toilet Lifts come standard with built-in handles, but they can also be fitted with optional retractable handles for easier side transfers.

Many people who need assistance getting on and off the toilet also need help cleaning, so a bidet is a commonly sought-after feature. All LiftSeat models can accommodate a bidet for hands-free cleaning and are easily converted into bedside commodes as needed.

Expert Guidance

If you’re unsure which toileting solution is right for you, it’s helpful to speak with an expert who can recommend one. You can speak with a real person (with years of experience recommending toilet lift solutions) by going to the LiftSeat website or calling (866) 973-3197. 

You can also learn which key features to look for when comparing power toilet lifts in this helpful guide.

Regardless of which toileting solution you choose, just be sure to do your research. There are many options available, and educating yourself about available options and how each meets your individual needs is crucial in finding a solution that works for you.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.