Frequently Asked Questions

What are my potential funding sources?
It is really hard for my caregiver to assist in transfers from the bed - what are my options?
Does Medicare pay for the Shower Helper?
Will it fit my bathroom?
Can I assemble the Shower Helper myself?
Will the Shower Helper mark my floors?
Will the Shower Helper rust?
What is the warranty period?
Does the Shower Helper recline or tilt?
Which model is good for me?
What is your return policy?
Shipping Policy?
Are the instructions easy to use?
When should I consider purchasing a Shower Helper?
What should I look for when purchasing a shower transfer system?
Seat that swivels:
Transportability:
Durability:
Safety:
Soft seat:
Universal fit:
Shower transfer systems versus overhead lifts:
Shower transfer systems versus bathroom remodel:
More info about "bathroom remodelling for accessibility"
More info about "Unique Shower Chair "
Shower Transfer Chairs – An Opportunity You Can Believe In
Transferring with the Sisus Shower / Bath Helper after a Spinal Cord Injury

Does Medicare pay for the Shower Helper?
Shower Helper is a private pay item that is sometimes covered by long term care insurance and state ran medicaid waiver programs.  Should you wish to apply for coverage under the Medicaid waiver program you will require a letter of medical necessity from your doctor or nurse.  Consult with your local dealer.

Will it fit my bathroom?
The Shower Helper is designed to fit 99% of bathrooms as standard.  Should you have a special requirement we do provide special order items by request. 

Can I assemble the Shower Helper myself?
Most of the time our dealers will provide installation services.  This may include installing a handheld shower rose and replacing the shower door with a curtain.  Installation of the Shower Helper itself is a very simple process that can be done independently.

Will the Shower Helper mark my floors?
Non-marking castors have been selected to protect you floors finish.

Will the Shower Helper rust?
The Shower Helper is highly durable and will remain rust free for life.

What is the warranty period?
 

NOTICE:  Please read this before operating or using the SISUS device.  By operating or using the device, you agree to the terms of this warranty.  If you do not agree, return the device to the authorized SISUS dealer from whom you purchased it (or to SISUS if you purchased directly from SISUS), and you will receive a full refund of the price you paid.  

WARRANTY:  SISUS warrants its new devices against defects in material and workmanship as follows:  Chair frames made of aluminum, stainless steel accessories and swivel mechanism--1 year; all soft parts including straps, soft seat and other parts not specifically identified--6 months.  

            The warranty period begins on the date you purchased the device.  For warranty service, please contact the authorized SISUS dealer from whom you purchased the device (or SISUS if you purchased directly from SISUS) no later than one month following the applicable warranty term.  The device will be repaired or replaced, by the dealer or by SISUS, as SISUS decides, with no charges to you for parts and labor (provided you have proof of purchase and of purchase date).  If it is impossible for you to deliver a device or part for service, or if service is not satisfactory, please consult with SISUS.  Please do not return devices to the SISUS factory without SISUS’s advance authorization.  Freight charges to the factory are at your expense, unless otherwise authorized by SISUS.

DISCLAIMER:  Except for the above warranty and SISUS’s acknowledgment that the device, as manufactured by it, is fit for the general purpose for which most persons acquire a device of its kind, SISUS provides to you --and you accept --the device as is, without warranties, either express or implied.  SISUS makes no warranty of fitness for your particular purpose and no warranty of merchantability beyond that already stated.  No warranties extend beyond the duration of the express warranty stated above.  

WARRANTY LIMITATIONS AND EXCULSIONS:  No SISUS employee, retailer or dealer has authority to make any warranty, representation, promise or agreement on behalf of SISUS that changes or adds to this warranty.  SISUS will not be liable in contract or warranty for incidental, consequential or other losses or damages.  SISUS’s only obligation under this warranty is to provide the purchaser with free repair and replacement as described.  This exclusive warranty remedy will not have failed as long as SISUS is willing and able to repair or replace as described; but if this remedy should be held to have failed, SISUS’s only remaining warranty obligation shall be to refund the purchase price of the device.  

            This warranty does not apply to problems arising from normal wear, improper operation, improper maintenance, improper storage or similar acts beyond SISUS’s control.  This warranty is void if parts not supplied or authorized by SISUS are used to repair or modify an SISUS device or if the serial number has been defaced or removed from a serial-numbered device.  

            This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that may vary from state to state.  Some states do not allow disclaimer of implied warranties, and some do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty may last.  Some do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages.  So the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.

 

Does the Shower Helper recline or tilt?
The Shower Helper features a set angle of recline enabling it to get into tight bathrooms and shower stalls.

Which model is good for me?
The Bath Helper will fit in shower stalls with a minimum width of 35"X35".  The seat height is set at a lower level (22"-24") facilitating easier transfer.  The Bath Helper also rolls over the existing commode.
We recommend the Shower Helper in bathrooms that have a narrow shower stall.  This unit comes complete with a commode.

What is your return policy?
Please read this before operating or using the SISUS device.  By operating or using the device, you agree to the terms of this warranty.  If you do not agree, return the device to the authorized SISUS dealer from whom you purchased it (or to SISUS if you purchased directly from SISUS), and you will receive a full refund of the price you paid.  

Dealer returns on new products will be charged a 20% restocking fee.  Please call for an RMA number before returning the product.  Products without an RMA number will not be accepted.

Shipping Policy ?
Products in stock will ship within 2 business days. Shipping charges will be included in your invoice where applicable. Products will be shipped via Ground shipping 5-7 business days. Urgent deliveries charged at cost.> Simple snap together assembly Transportable Universally fits your bath tub or shower Saves money versus costly bathroom remodel Highly durable and rust free for life.

Are the instructions easy to use?
The Shower Helper is assembled by a simple snap together process. You can download and print the Sisus Helper instruction manual directly from the web site. A complete set of instructions is included with every Sisus Helper purchase. 

When should I consider purchasing a Shower Helper?
The Shower Helper provides a very cost effective solution versus bathroom remodel or over head lift systems. You should consider using a Shower Helper as soon as an assistant is required for transfer within the bathroom. 

Are the Shower/Bath Helpers transportable?
Yes, the Shower/Bath Helper can be quickly disassembled and fits into a large suitcase (not provided).  

What is a shower transfer system:
A shower transfer system provides a technology based solution for safe access to either the bathtub or shower stall. 

When should I consider a shower transfer system?
You should consider purchasing a shower transfer system as soon as transfer into the shower or bathtub becomes difficult with an assistant.  Alternatively a shower transfer system can help you maintain independence during key parts of the bathing process maintaining your dignity.

What should I look for when purchasing a shower transfer system?
Every person and home has a unique set of needs.  Listed below are some of the features you may consider important:

Seat that swivels:
Often bathrooms are narrow and require great flexibility in maneuvering and positioning.  The swivel feature often allows user and caregiver to develop the optimal bathing routine.  This is particularly useful in shower stalls which have a confined space.

Transportability:
If desired, consider a shower transfer system that is easy to install, universally fitting and compact.

Durability:
Shower transfer systems can be found in steel, aluminum or PVC plastic. Aluminum provides the ultimate balance of strength versus weight and with a high quality finish allowing the chair to blend into the home environment.  PVC models are glued which has been known to fall apart after 18 months.  The Shower Helper utilizes a bearing less system and aircraft grade aluminum providing long lasting use ability.

Safety:
Not all shower transfer systems allow for the safe removal of the transfer chair while in the shower.  This can be an important feature if you wish the shower curtain or shower door to be closed while showering.  The Shower helper has several built in safety features.

Soft seat:
A soft seat makes a big difference for user comfort.  This Shower Helper seat is designed for comfort.

Universal fit:
A good shower transfer system will allow for easy fine tune adjustment to establish a level fit over the bath tub or shower threshold.  This is most important during first time set up or when the unit is used in a new location. 

Shower transfer systems versus overhead lifts:
Shower transfer systems are typically 30-100% less than an overhead lift system.  Overhead lifts may require partial home modification which may not be an option for renters.  Overhead lifts are not transportable.  Also consider the lead time till installation which can cause significant disruption to your daily routine.  The Shower Helper can be installed in minutes and can be stored in the closet when not in use.

Shower transfer systems versus bathroom remodel:
Bathroom remodeling for accessibility is the most costly and time consuming option available.  Once complete you often require a shower chair.  The Shower Helper removes the need for bathroom remodel, it's quick and affordable.

Transferring with the Sisus Shower / Bath Helper after a Spinal Cord Injury

What are transfers?

After a spinal cord injury (SCI), you may need a wheelchair to move from place to place. Caregivers will teach you how to transfer (move) to and from your wheelchair. Transfer in the same way to use the Sisus Shower Helper or Bath Helper. These transfers may be used when moving to and from your bed, the couch, or anywhere that you would like to sit.

Can I transfer to and from my Shower/Bath Helper without help?

Whether you can transfer without help depends on where on your spinal cord the injury happened. Caregivers will work with you to build up your upper body strength. Then they will see if you have the strength and balance to do transfers without help.

What happens if I need help transferring to and from my Shower/Bath Helper?

Caregivers will teach you and your family members or assistant how to do transfers together.

What kinds of transfers are available?

You may use a transfer board to bridge the gap between your Shower/Bath Helper and the bed or other seat. Caregivers may show you how to do stand-pivot-sit transfers so that a transfer board is not needed. They can also teach your family members or assistants how to do this with you.

How do I move from my bed to my Shower/Bath Helper without help?

-Position yourself at the edge of the bed in a sitting position. Keep your feet flat on the floor.
-Place the Shower/Bath Helper as close to your bed as possible. Lock the wheels. Disable swivel function. Remove the arm and leg rest that are closest to the bed.
-Put one edge of the transfer board under your buttock (hip) and the other edge on the Shower/Bath Helper seat. The transfer board will bridge the gap between the other surface and the seat.
-Put your hands on the bed, tighten your elbows, and push yourself up off the surface. -Move yourself over the board in sections until you are completely on the Shower/Bath Helper seat.
-Do not drag yourself across the board. Doing this can tear or scratch your skin.
-Remove the transfer board and position yourself in the middle of the seat.

How do I move from my bed to my Shower/Bath Helper if I cannot do it myself?

There are several ways to transfer to your Shower/Bath Helper from your bed or commode if you need help.

1. Using a transfer board: Have your assistant help you sit up on the edge of your bed. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor. Have the assistant place the Shower/Bath Helper as close to your bed or commode as possible. Lock the wheels. Disable the swivel feature. Have your assistant remove the arm and leg rest. The assistant then places one edge of the transfer board under your buttock (hip). They will place the other edge on the Shower/Bath Helper seat. This way it bridges the gap between your bed and the Shower/Bath Helper seat.

2. The assistant stands in front of you with his knees pressing against your knees to keep them stable. The assistant also stabilizes your shoulders to keep you from falling. Put your arms around the assistant's shoulders. You may also cross your arms over your chest or put your hands in your lap. The assistant holds you under your buttocks as you lean forward toward him. The assistant will lift your buttocks off the bed, and pivot toward your Shower/Bath Helper seat. He may set you down on the transfer board half way through the turn, if needed. He should make sure not to drag you across to avoid tearing or scratching your skin.The assistant then removes the transfer board. The assistant should make sure that you are positioned in the middle of the Shower/Bath Helper seat.The assistant will replace the arm and leg rest.

3. Using the stand-pivot-sit method: This method can only be used if your assistant is strong enough to help you stand and turn. It also can only be used when it is OK with caregivers for you to put weight on your legs. Make sure you wear non-skid shoes when using this type of transfer. Have your assistant help you sit on the edge of your bed. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor. Have the assistant place your Shower/Bath Helper as close to your bed or commode as possible. Lock the wheels. Disable the swivel seat feature. Your assistant will remove the arm and leg rests that are closest to the bed. The assistant places one edge of the transfer board under your buttock (hip). The assistant places the other edge on the Shower/Bath Helper seat. The transfer board will bridge the gap between your bed and the Shower/Bath Helper. The assistant stands in front of you with his knees pressing against your knees to keep them stable. The assistant also stabilizes your shoulders to keep you from falling. Put your arms around the assistant's shoulders. You may also cross your arms across your chest, or put your hands in your lap. The assistant holds you under your buttocks or around your waist as you lean forward toward him. The assistant will move and lift you to a standing position. At the same time, the assistant presses his knees firmly against yours to lock your knees in the straight position. The assistant will pivot you toward your Shower/Bath Helper. The assistant will then remove the transfer board. He makes sure that you are positioned in the middle of the Shower/Bath Helper seat. The assistant will replace the arm and leg rests.

Safety tips for getting into and out of a bathtub:

The Bath Helper slides you safely into and out of the bath tub. Be sure to lift your legs over the bath wall while sliding into or out of the bath. If you cannot lift your legs alone, make sure your assistant/caregiver/family member can lift each leg over the bath wall.  

Put your towel close to the bathtub so that you can reach it easily.

How do I get into and out of a bathtub without help?

Once you are in the bathroom and the tracks are secured, lock the wheels and disable the swivel feature on the seat. Then depress the slide release button and push yourself in the seat, down the track. Lift your legs into the bathtub.

How do I get in and out of the bathtub if I cannot do it myself?

Have your assistant help you by locking the wheels on the Bath Helper and disabling the swivel seat feature. Then have the assistant depress the slide release button and push you down the track making sure to lift your legs over the bath wall.

Where can I go for support?

Having a spinal cord injury is life-changing for you and your family. Accepting that you have a spinal cord injury is hard. You and those close to you may feel angry, sad, or frightened. These feelings are normal. Talk to your caregivers, family, or friends about your feelings. Let them help you. Encourage those close to you to talk to your caregiver about how things are at home. Your caregiver can help your family better understand how to support a person with a spinal cord injury.

You may want to join a support group. This is a group of people who also have spinal cord injuries. Ask your caregiver for the names and numbers of support groups in your town. You can contact one of the following national organizations for more information.

What is wrong with PVC shower chairs?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a widely used plastic, may pose a risk to the environment if disposed of improperly. Another concern is that PVC might contain various other chemical substances, including plasticizers and stabilizers, which are believed to pose risks to the environment and human body.

Paralyzed Veterans of America
801 Eighteenth Street NW
Washington, DC, 20006
Phone: 1-800-424-8200
Web Address: www.pva.org

National Spinal Cord Injury Association
6701 Democracy Blvd, Ste 300-9
Bethesda, MD 20817
Phone: 1-800-962-9629
Web Address: www.spinalcord.org

American Spinal Cord Association
2020 Peachtree Road, NW
Atlanta, Georgia, 30309-1402
Phone: 1-404-355-9772
Web Address: www.asia-spinalinjury.org

What are my potential funding sources?
The funding sources listed may not be from your state, however...

There is an equivalent agency in your state. Your state might use another name for its agency, but these agency functions listed to track down your states corresponding agency.

Multiple Sclerosis  Society
Massachusetts Chapter
101 First Ave, Suite 6
Waltham, MA 02154
(781) 890-4990
(800) 493-9255
Eligibility -Must have Multiple Sclerosis

Metavante Corporation
P O Box 3280
Milwaukee, WI 53201
1-877-346-5272 for questions
Provides long term disability

Berkshire County
AD-LIB
215 North St
Pittsfield, MA 01201
413-442-7047 V/TTY
800-232-7047

85 Main St.
North Adams, MA 01247
413-662-2650 V/TTY

Cape and Islands
Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled
1019 Iyanough Rd., #4
Hyannis, MA 02601
508-775-8300 V/TTY
800-541-0282
508-775-7022 FAX
Greater Boston
Boston Center for Independent Living
95 Berkley St., Suite 206
Boston, MA 02116
617-338-6665 V
617-338-6662 TTY
617-338-6661 FAX

Spina Bifida Association
Massachusetts Chapter
(888) 479-1900
Eligibility -Must have Multiple Sclerosis

Massachusetts Office of Disability
One Ashburton Place, Room 1305
Boston, MA 02108

Funding source for your home modifications
Modifying a home so that a person with a disability may live alone or with his or her family can be a costly proposition. You need to make several phone calls and wait months before receiving assistance. Some of the funding and loan sources also provide design and cost estimating services.

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)
Call your local MRC office (phone book) or Contact the Central Office
Fort Point Place
27-43 Wormwood St.
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 204-3600

Eligibility-At employment age (16+)
MRC client
Funding up to $4000 for persons with disabilities who are employed and seeking to maintain employment or have potential to benefit form employment. Homemaking is included as a vocation or vocational goal.

Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB)
88 Kingston St.
Boston, MA 02111
Adaptive Housing Coordinator or
Director of Independent Living
(617) 727-5550 or 800-392-6450

Eligibility -All ages
Blindness plus secondary disability
Funding of up to $4000 for MCB clients who have a vocational, educational, or independent living goal.

Independent Living Centers
Eligibility -School age (included children in early intervention program) and up (no upper age limit)
-Not MRC client
Funding of up to $4000 to persons with disabilities who have the goal of independent living. Priority is given to persons at risk of institutionalization, persons in institutions who are seeking community living options and persons who have been determined too severely disabled to benefit from employment services from Mass Rehab Comm. For the Blind
For more information contact MRC's Independent Living Division (617) 204-3851

Berkshire County
AD-LIB
215 North St
Pittsfield, MA 01201
413-442-7047 V/TTY
800-232-7047

85 Main St.
North Adams, MA 01247
413-662-2650 V/TTY

Cape and Islands
Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled
1019 Iyanough Rd., #4
Hyannis, MA 02601
508-775-8300 V/TTY
800-541-0282
508-775-7022 FAX
Greater Boston
Boston Center for Independent Living
95 Berkley St., Suite 206
Boston, MA 02116
617-338-6665 V
617-338-6662 TTY
617-338-6661 FAX

Deaf Individuals in Greater Boston
D.E.A.F., INC.
215 Brighton Ave
Allston, MA 02134
617-254-4041 V/TTY
617-254-7091 FAX

Fall River/New Bedford
South east Center for Independent Living
66 Troy St.
508-679-9210 V
508-677-2377 TTY/FAX

Hampshire, Hampden and Franklin County
Starvos Center for Independent Living
691 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
413-256-0473 V/TTY
800-442-1185 V/TTY
413-256-0190 FAX

262 Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01104
413-781-5555 V/TTY
413-733-5473 FAX

55 Federal St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
413-774-3001 VOICE
413-772-2556 TTY
413-772-2556 FAX

Metro west Area
Metro west Center for Independent Living
63 Fountain St., Suite 504
Framingham, MA 01701
508-875-7853 V/TTY
508-875-8359 FAX

Northeast Regional
Northeast Independent Living Program
20 Ballard Rd
Lawrence, MA 01843
978-687-4288 V/TTY
978-689-4488 FAX

69 Main St.
Amesbury, MA 01913
978-338-0677 V/TTY

North Shore/Cape Ann
Indep. Living Center of the North Shore
27 Congress St., Suite 107
Salem, MA 01970
978-741-0077 V/TTY
978-741-1133 FAX

Southeast/South Shore
Independence Associates
10 Oak St., 2nd Floor
Taunton, MA 02780
508-880-5325 V/TTY
508-880-6311 FAX

Worcester County
Center for Living and Working
484 Main St., Suite 345
Worcester, MA 01608
508-798-0350 V/TTY
508-797-4015 FAX

100 Medway Rd.
Milford, MA 01757
508-473-2271 V/TTY

76 Summer St.
Fitchburg, MA 01420
978-345-1568 V/TTY

Community Development Blockgrant
Contact your municipal community development office, local housing authority, town hall, or city hall
Eligibility- set by each municipality

Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
211 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101

United Cerebral Palsy
Berkshires - Pittsfield 413-442-1562
Boston/Southeast/Cape - Watertown 617-926-5480
North Shore- Lynn 781-593-2727, 800-454-2727
Western Mass - Springfield 413-788-9695
Eligibility -Any severe disability

CIVIC AND RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS
B'nai Brith, Elks, Knights of Columbus, Odd Fellows, 4-H, Shriners, Lion's, Rotary, Masons Grand Lodge, Knights of Pythiasis, Hadassah, Fraternities/Sororities

Your Landlord
Massachusetts law (Chapter 151 B) explains all
To find out more about these laws:
Massachusetts Office of Disability
800-322-2020 (Voice/TDD)
617-727-7440 (Voice/TDD)

Mass Housing Finance Agency (MHFA)
Office of Single Family Programs
Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP)
50 Milk St.
Boston, MA 02109
617-854-1000
Eligibility -Owner occupied 1-4 family home
-Income level
Low interest loans up to $15000 are available for eligible persons in participating communities. To find out if your community is participating in the program contract MHFA at the number listed.

Employees & Unions
Some large corporations and unions will help with adaptations if the employee, union member of family member has a disability.

Rural Development (Farmers Home Administration (FHA)
Contact US Government Office in Amherst
413-253-4300 or 800-352-8015
Eligibility -Location in rural area
Income level
FHA provides loans up to $105,000 at interest rates from 1 to 9% depending on income level and family size.

Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents
600 Washington St
Boston, MA 02111
800-323-3249 Or 617-727-4900
Eligibility -Injured on the job
Injured reported immediately
The employer reports the injury to their insurance company. Worker's Compensation may pay for adaptations to homes required as a result of injuries or industrial accidents.

Associated Grants-Makers of Massachusetts
294 Washington St., Suite 840
Boston, MA 02108
617-426-2606

Office of Attorney General
Victims Compensation Division
One Ashburnton Place
617-727-2200
CIRCLE OF HOPE
Attn: Cathy Ronco
39 Cambridge Rd.
Norwood, MA 02062
781-762-1240 ext 173
Eligibility -Funds ramps for residence in Norwood, MA only

Deaf Individuals in Greater Boston
D.E.A.F., INC.
215 Brighton Ave
Allston, MA 02134
617-254-4041 V/TTY
617-254-7091 FAX

Fall River/New Bedford
South east Center for Independent Living
66 Troy St.
508-679-9210 V
508-677-2377 TTY/FAX

Hampshire, Hampden and Franklin County
Starvos Center for Independent Living
691 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
413-256-0473 V/TTY
800-442-1185 V/TTY
413-256-0190 FAX

262 Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01104
413-781-5555 V/TTY
413-733-5473 FAX

55 Federal St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
413-774-3001 VOICE
413-772-2556 TTY
413-772-2556 FAX

Metro west Area
Metro west Center for Independent Living
63 Fountain St., Suite 504
Framingham, MA 01701
508-875-7853 V/TTY
508-875-8359 FAX

Northeast Regional
Northeast Independent Living Program
20 Ballard Rd
Lawrence, MA 01843
978-687-4288 V/TTY
978-689-4488 FAX

69 Main St.
Amesbury, MA 01913
978-338-0677 V/TTY

North Shore/Cape Ann
Independent Living Center of the North Shore
27 Congress St., Suite 107
Salem, MA 01970
978-741-0077 V/TTY
978-741-1133 FAX

Southeast/South Shore
Independence Associates
10 Oak St., 2nd Floor
Taunton, MA 02780
508-880-5325 V/TTY
508-880-6311 FAX

Worcester County
Center for Living and Working
484 Main St., Suite 345
Worcester, MA 01608
508-798-0350 V/TTY
508-797-4015 FAX

100 Medway Rd.
Milford, MA 01757
508-473-2271 V/TTY

76 Summer St.
Fitchburg, MA 01420
978-345-1568 V/TTY

Muscular Dystrophy Association
Greater Boston - Boston (617) 348-2155
Southeast - Lakeview (508) 947-2929
Central Mass. - Westboro (508) 898-3375
Northeast - Danvers (978) 777-0333
Eligibility -Must have one of the 40 registered muscular conditions recognized by MDA