LEAN: Shower Aid for Disabilities and Women with Special Conditions

Abstract

Around the world, 8% adults experience back pain which leads to functional limitations in the activities of daily living. Around 70% of women do report lower back pain at some point in their lives. In addition, a major number of those people with chronic low back pain also display symptoms of depression or anxiety. It can also be caused due to obesity, age, reduced physical activity, medicines and osteoarthritis (weak knee joints). In Pakistan, majority women after the age of 40 years' experience low back pain, weak knee joints and/or obesity and it becomes difficult for them to do the simplest of daily routine tasks such as taking shower. This is where Lean comes in. This product caters to the problems faced by women due to these health issues and enables them to take shower on their own without anyone's assistance. It offers high levels of stability and support to people who value their independence and dignity but need a little assistance with their mobility. It helps the user in walking while helping correct their posture and also in the bathroom while taking shower. It provides support to their body and helps maintain balance while walking. It also provides a comfortable seating in the bathroom with all showering products in reach and makes it easier for the user to perform ADL. With height adjustment, user can easily adjust its height according to her needs.