As seniors age, they may need to invest in mobility aidsDevices that help individuals move around more easily to maintain independence, including walkers, w... and comfortable lift chairs to make their homes safer places to live. Step stools can be very helpful for seniors who need extra assistance to reach high shelves or storage spaces in their homes. They can also help seniors climb into taller beds or do gardeningThe practice of growing and cultivating plants as part of horticulture therapy, which can provide ph... work.
Learning about the benefits of using a stool can help seniors decide which stepping stool is the best fit for their needs.
A portable step stool has plenty of benefits for older seniors. Due to it being lightweight and easy to carry, it’s good for inside and outside use. For instance, it can help seniors get in and out of a car, reach for kitchen appliances placed out of reach, or even assist them in the bathtub.
Instead of using their tiptoes or a potentially unsafe chair or counter, seniors can benefit from having a sturdy and secure folding step that can be easily stored away when not in use. These can also be very helpful for travel purposes depending on their weight.
This can be especially helpful for those with poor mobility since statistics show that more than 1 in 3 people age 65 years or older suffers from falls each year. However, seniors with extremely poor balance should avoid using bedside step stools since this can be dangerous and cause greater injury.
With all the different step stools on the market, choosing the right mobility step can be a challenge. However, choosing a step stool with a handrail can improve senior safety.
This list of mobility step stools includes several options that are suitable for most seniors' needs in terms of durability, size, weight, and safety.
| Product Name | Drive Medical 13062-1SV Bariatric Heavy Duty Step Stool | eXpace Folding Step Stool | Simplay3 Handy Home 2-Step Plastic Stool | North American Health Wellness Mobility Step | Platinum Health AdjustaStep(tm) DoubleSafe Deluxe Step Stool | Ideaworks Slip Resistant 4" Bath Step |
| Size & Weight | 2.37 pounds / 14" x 10" x 34" | 2.8 pounds / 14" x 9" x 9" | 6.6 pounds / 15.5" x 19" x 16" | 3.6 pounds / 19 ¼" x 15 ½" x 4" | 13.1 pounds / 13.75" x 11.25" x 17.5" | 2.99 pounds / 21" x 17.5" x 17.5" |
| Durability | Sturdy Alloy Stee | Polypropyene | Plastic Construction | Plastic Construction | Alloy Steel Construction | Plastic and Foam |
| Handrail vs. No Handrail | Handrail | No Handrail | No Handrail | No Handrail | Dual Handrail | No Handrail |
| Collapsibility | No | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Rubber Gripping | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The Drive Medical heavy duty step stool comes fully assembled with a solid steel construction. It can accommodate a variety of senior weights and comes with a non-skid rubber platform and rubber feet to improve grip while reducing the risk of falls.
It has a dark grey finish that is suitable for most home interiors although it may be bulky for those looking for a more portable model. The solid construction makes it a good choice for those who strictly require extra balance and assistance.
| Pros | Cons |
| Durable material holds up to 500 lbs | Not a good option for travel |
| Comes with a limited lifetime warranty | Not made of stainless steel |
| Handrail provides extra stability for step stool | Step stool height may be too tall for some seniors |
The eXpace folding step stool is very compact and lightweight. Its material means that it is easy to clean and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The striped rubber design prevents falls, and its unique design allows it to fold flat for storage, making it ideal for home and travel use.
It comes in several colors including black, beige, navy, and blue and fun prints to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
| Pros | Cons |
| Comes in a variety of different colors | Only supports users up to 350 lbs |
| Can be used by kids, adults, and seniors | Needs to be unfolded before use |
| Compact and easy to carry making it ideal for travel | Doesn't come with a handrail |
This bed step stool comes with 8 inch and 16 inch steps for lower and higher areas. It has wide grooves to improve grip and stability, while the molded handle improves ease of carry. It is also made of double wall plastic that is easy to clean and water proof.
It comes in three different colors including gray, blue, and tan to match most modern interiors. Its sturdy construction also makes it an ideal choice to use when gardening or in the bathroom, although seniors with balance issues may wish to avoid using the second higher step.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price point | Does not fold up |
| Easy to grip and carry | Heavier than other step stools |
| Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use | Weight rating could be improved |
This bedside step stool is suitable for use in the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom. It comes with drainage holes to get rid of any water, making it ideal for seniors who need extra help getting into the tub. However, some users have concerns about durability and the stated weight limit.
On the other hand, the large surface area makes it a good choice for seniors looking for a stool to step down on while using the toilet, and the plastic construction is easy to clean in case any spills or accidents occur.
| Pros | Cons |
| Supports users weighing up to 440 lbs | Some issues with return process |
| Suitable for indoor and outdoor use | May crack under extra weight |
| Well sized for doorways | Lacks handrail |
For seniors who need extra stability, this step stool comes with dual handrailsRails installed along stairways and in hallways to provide support for seniors while walking, helpin... to improve physical and psychological safety. While many step stools tend to be one size fits all, the handle height can be easily adjusted to match the comfort of the senior and improve their range of motion when reaching high places.
In addition, the maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs supports most users. Lastly, the nonslip pad prevents slips for wet feet while the rubber foot grips help prevent the stool from shifting in place. For heavier seniors, they also offer a version that supports up to 750 lbs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Height adjustable with dual handle | May lack stability |
| Sturdy alloy steel construction | May weigh more than other bedside step stools |
| Easy to clean and disinfect | Significant return shipping costs |
Seniors looking for a bathroom step stool would appreciate the Ideaworks stool that is stackable for extra height. It has a textured top to prevent slips and falls while the foam riser provides extra comfort and cushion when entering or exiting your bathtub. The heavy duty plastic can support users weighing up to 418 pounds.
| Pros | Cons |
| Plastic and foam finish is suitable for bathroom use | Lacks handrail for extra support |
| Design enables stacking of multiple stool options | Some concerns about stool durability from users |
| Lightweight, easy to carry, and transport | Weight limit may be questionable |
Here are some key answers to consider when seniors are shopping for a portable folding step stool.
Seniors can use step stools when reaching for items on shelves or as a mobility aid both indoors and outdoors. Ideally, step stools with handles provide great stability and support, but may be more difficult to use for travel than portable models that are foldable.
The height of a step stool is dependent on the individual senior who uses it, but those who are physically challenged should find a shorter step stool to prevent slips and falls from occurring.
Step stools are mainly designed for sitting or for those who need extra support and balance when reaching or climbing such as children and seniors. On the other hand, step ladders tend to be much higher, making them less ideal for seniors with balance issues.
Overall, the best step stool for the elderly is dependent on their individual needs and preferences. When selecting a model, you willA legal document that states how a person's property should be managed and distributed after death. want to consider weight limits, materials, cost, and features such as handrails and rubber grips. At the end of the day, ensuring your elderly loved ones have the right tools to help them function is the goal.
Read on to learn more about choosing the best recliner for seniors on Senior Strong today!
