8 Things to Look For in a Safety Step Stool for the Elderly

by Kim Davies June 29, 2022

When we're young, we can move as much as we want because our body is at its prime. As we get older, however, our mobility and flexibility become limited because our joints stiffen. Even worse, we can't raise our legs to take a step, such as when climbing stairs. The good news is that using a safety step stool can help.

A safety step stool is precisely what it sounds like: a stool used to help elderly and weak people get to places they can't get to. It's often used in hospitals, medical clinics, and the like, but it's also used at home, depending on the situation. Since a safety step stool supplements movement, it's imperative to shop around to ensure the user's movement isn't compromised. Here are some important considerations when looking for one:

#1 - Size

When looking for a safety step stool, you must consider the user's height. Since this item is used to help get higher places, the user should be able to rest both feet on the stools. This is the only way they can get a good steadiness, and even if you're planning on using it with just one foot, you should still get a step stool that's tall and strong enough to carry that weight.

#2 - Design

A safety step stool must be ergonomic, meaning it should be designed so the user won't be uncomfortable. The best step stool for elderly and disabled individuals will be designed in such a way that they can easily hold onto it, and they can rest their feet on it as they climb. Safety also comes into play because even the sturdiest of stools can slip if it's not designed properly.

#3 - Padding

The safety step stool should be padded on the bottom so it won't scratch or tear the surfaces it's used on. It should also have a non-slip surface to stay in place as the person climbs. Some stools have a mesh-like material on the bottom to maximize flexibility and durability, while others have grooves that give the user a better grip.

#4 - Rubber Grip

Since the safety step stool needs to be used with one foot or two, it helps if it has rubber grips or suction cups to keep the user in place. The rubber grips should also be non-slip, so it won't happen that the user falls. The suction cups should have a strong hold as well.

#5 - Portability

Ideally, a safety step stool should be portable, making it easier to carry from place to place. It might help an elderly person get in and out of bed or assist a disabled person get up to a certain height. Beyond that, its adjustability is also crucial because the user might need it to be taller or shorter depending on the height of whatever they're trying to climb.

#6 - Stability

A safety step stool must be stable so the user won't risk slipping or falling. A good step stool will have a broad base that won't slip, especially when its weight is on it. As previously mentioned, it should have a non-slip surface. The stools also shouldn't be wobbly or shaky, so shopping around online is essential to learn about the various brands and models.

#7 - Material Used

A safety step stool should be made from a durable material to hold heavy weight and repeated use. Since it will be used to help someone get in and out of bed, you want to ensure it will last for years. It should be lightweight for ease of use and thick enough to support a lot of weight.

#8 - Price

Above all else, the price of the safety step stool should be reasonable. You want to ensure that you're getting the best quality product for your money, especially since you will use it daily. You should be able to find a step stool for elderly people for $60 or less.

Conclusion

A safety step stool is essential for any household with an elderly or disabled person who might need it to get around. You should never skimp on it, so be sure to shop around to ensure you get the best one that suits the user's needs.

If you’re looking for a bed step stool for the elderly, HearGlow can help you! We provide various resources to make elderly living safer, and we also have invisible hearing devices for those with hearing loss. Simply go to our website to get started!