History of Showerbuddy

The Showerbuddy has undergone a significant amount of change since its inception in New Zealand in 2003. The idea was born after a young New Zealand designer observed the difficulty his grandfather, Mr. Florence, was having with activities of daily living after suffering a stroke. After the stroke, Mr Florence lost most of his mobility and soon required assistance in basic needs such as bathing and toileting.

The medical products available at the time were not suitable for bathing and toileting people who had lost much of their mobility. Shower chairs in the market were stationary and commodes were to be purchased separately. Mr. Florence would have to suffer through two or three difficult transfers before reaching his destination. Furthermore, the shower chairs that were available had no safety features.

Finally, after a fall in the shower and a significant injury to Mr. Florence, his grandson figured that there must be a better solution for safety, comfort and dignity in the restroom and shower. There was a vision.

Although the initial chair wasn’t much to look at (see photo) it was a godsend for Mr. Florence and his caregivers. The system was constructed using a basic plastic garden chair bolted to a few pieces of lumber. This simple design allowed for the chair to be moved in and out of the shower without much difficulty, utilizing less transfers. The benefits became very obvious. Engineering a chair suitable for most patients with disabilities commenced.

The new chair would be light-weight, durable, easy to use, easy to transport and comfortable for the patient as well as the caregiver. A few years and a number of improvements later, the Showerbuddy was born. The new model boasts a frame of aluminium and stainless steel; it features a 360 degree rotation to allow the patient a more thorough shower experience, a removable bridge attaches the chair to the track allowing the patient to bathe behind closed doors if they wish. The chair also includes a commode and is capable of rolling over standard toilets.

So, here it is… The Showerbuddy, the only buddy that helps maintain your independence!!!