Shower Safety

I have tried several of these.

They work great on perfectly flat, smooth, non-porous surfaces (like glass, obviously).

Not so much on textured or tiled surfaces. Sometimes they'll hold briefly...but will release unexpectedly.

I keep one in my travel kit. We sometimes stay in places that don't have handicap rooms, so in the right conditions, it comes in very handy.

I suggest caution.

@shmerdloff
I don't trust anything not securely mounted.
Jake

@jakedduck1 I have two wall mounted stainless steel handles that are outside of the shower enclosure. One thing to really watch is your footing. That can be so simple to lose and down you go! Been there, done that. I use a pebbled mat to help me feel the shower floor. Having no feeling in my left foot, it is a lifesaver for me.
Ginger

You can mount bars just outside the tub/shower enclosure, but you can also get floor-to-ceiling poles, telescoping poles that won't make any holes. Against the ceiling is a flat bar with the top of the pole abutting it, and the bottom of the pole rests on a 3-4" diameter pad...also not going to mar the floor. Not cheap, but easily installed and easily removed. Just insert a screwdriver shaft into the hole near the bottom and turn it to tighten it, just like floor jacks used in basements.
https://www.homedepot.ca/product/stander-security-pole-floor-to-ceiling-grab-bar-in-white/1001671918

My husband has Parkinson’s and showering is a challenge. We have several grab bars installed, but recently added shower chair that has handles on the sides. We were able to obtain this at no charge from this from our local senior center. This organization has a room filled with helpful items that have been donated by others. The chair is more helpful than a tile seat or ledge because it can be moved to the optimum spot under the shower head.

@gingerw I use the mats also. Moving slowly, deliberately and carefully helps too!

If anyone uses the suction cup method be sure to keep the pushing the brass button till suction is at full suction. There is a red line on the button to keep you aware that the suction cup keeps the cup secure. Trust me I have used them for 45 years. THAT IS VERY IMPORTANT OR YOU LOOOSE YOUR VACUMM PRESURE.

@cmdw2600
When I broke my ankle I bought an adjustable height shower stool that worked well. Five years later, my 6 year old now uses it for her showers.

I'm glad you mentioned using a bath mat, most tubs after they get wet are very slippery. My ex used to travel with a mat for traction purposes and cleanliness. If you have a doubt put a towel in the bottom of the tub let it get fully wet and stand on that, that will give you traction also.

My husband requires a lot of things for his disability and recovery from triple bypass. The therapists and nurses that came to our home for the inspection before beginning his home therapy saw that our shower has one grab bar but needed a second one. He also needed something to help him safely get into the shower that he could hold onto. The bathroom is on the smaller side so not much could be done to help. We were told about acquiring a Buddy Pole and it works well for him. It was affordable and can be moved to any spot he needs it to help him get up or down safely. It doesn't attach to anything and can be placed in almost any area with forethought. Hope this helps somewhat and I loved everyone's answers. Each thing that was mentioned is informative and good. Have a great day.