Short Description

The choice of appropriate toilet pans, seats, cisterns and flush
mechanisms can influence maximum toileting independence. Specific
requirements, such as the need to use a shower / toilet chair, transfer in a particular direction or to rise to standing from a higher seat, should be determined initially and then suitable fittings sought.

Options

. Wall or floor-mounted pan.
. Electronic flush - touch tiles can contain low energy radar sensor,
the flush is activated by bringing the hand toward the tile.
. Remote flush.
. Large pad button.
. Foot control.

More Details

Points to consider:
*Location and space required. Plumbing location is an important
consideration in the selection of a toilet and its location in the room, particularly if replacing an existing toilet. The space a pan and cistern occupy directly affect the space available to transfer, use a shower/toilet chair or grab rails effectively.
Note: For a person who transfers laterally AS1428.1-2001 recommends 800 mm minimum from the front of the pan to the rear wall, 1150 mm from the centre of the pan to the side for transfer and 450 - 460 mm to the adjacent wall.
* Height of pan and its suitability for transfer or use with a shower/toilet
chair or for ambulant users, so that they can rise from the seat
easily.
Note: AS 1428.1-2001 recommends a height of 460 mm to 480 mm from the floor to the top of the seat. This height should be suitable for most shower / toilet chairs, although the maximum clearance from
the floor to the seat supporting frame of the chair should be checked (it can range from 457 mm to 508 mm). This height can also provide a slightly higher than average seat height for those who transfer or are ambulant and find it easier to rise from a higher seat. The use of a raised seat may assist if the pan height is unsuitable. A maximum width of 400 mm is recommended for the pan.

*Cistern design, location and size. Recessed or surface-mounted models are available. Generally surface-mounted designs are used in the domestic setting. Cisterns can have dual or single flush. Enlarged flush buttons are available as a retro-fit or standard on some makes. The size and placement of the cistern can limit the space available to transfer or the use of a shower/toilet chair.
Note: AS1428.1-2001 recommends that for use with a shower/toilet chair the depth of the cistern to the rear wall should be a
maximum of 200 mm and the minimum height from the floor to the
base of the cistern should be 600 mm. The distance from the centre of the cistern to the adjacent wall should be a minimum of 450 mm. A cistern with a maximum overall width of 600 mm is recommended. There should be a distance of 600 mm minimum from the front of the cistern to the front of the pan. A close coupled cistern and pan is generally unsuitable for people who transfer from a wheelchair or use a shower/toilet chair.

*Flush mechanism should be easy to reach and push.
Note: AS1428.1-2001 recommends for cisterns over 400 mm wide the push button height must be no greater than 1100 mm from the finished floor and within the required zone for the position of a flushing control (see standard for details).

*Seat should be firm but comfortable. Options include hard plastic, timber or padded. A full seat is usually preferred.
*Plumbing requirements and cost of installation as well as purchase price.
*Length and conditions of warranty.

For further information check choice magazine, the Yellow Pages of the telephone book and talk to a retailer.
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These are general suggestions - if you experience considerable difficulty in performing activities of daily living, consult an occupational therapist at a community health centre or aged care assessment team or make an appointment with the ILC.