Written by Mike Price, OT
When it comes to caring for individuals with special needs, finding the right equipment is crucial for promoting their comfort, independence, and overall well-being. For many caregivers, this includes using an adult changing table that is specifically designed to meet the needs of those with physical or developmental disabilities. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we will review our best adult changing tables, taking into account factors such as adjustability, ease of use, and safety features. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, or professional, we hope this guide will help you choose the right changing table to make daily routines easier and more comfortable.
 | 1) Armedica Hi-Lo Changing Table with Side Rails View Product |
Some tables are large and less mobile, designed to be installed in one place, and usually, they are more appropriate for professional environments than home use. Tables that are more compact and can be moved from room to room are usually found in home care situations.
Know your table’s measurements, your available space, and the doorway and corner measurements if you are planning to move the table from room to room. Allow for clearance to walk around the table for transfers or delivering care.
Some models are wall-mounted, which can be folded down and out of the way when not in use. They are usually more expensive and since they are often used in schools or hospitals, they are ADA-compliant.
Standard adult changing tables can accommodate users up to 300 pounds, while bariatric versions can support patients up to 1,000 pounds.
If your table will not be moved from room to room, a fixed model that stays in one place will work fine. Portable changing tables have wheels, but be sure it has hospital-grade casters if you plan on using them as a backup stretcher in an emergency. These should have safety side rails to keep the user safe while the table is in motion.
An adult changing table is a durable height-adjustable platform to transfer and assist a user in changing undergarments, diapers, or clothing. An adult changing table provides a secure space that benefits the patient and caregiver in accomplishing these daily living tasks.
Adult changing tables reduce the risk of injury to caregivers who are susceptible to an overuse or strain injury while assisting a patient on a less ergonomic surface. The fall risk and exposure to unsanitary conditions are reduced for patients who benefit from a comfortable, secure, and sanitary surface.
It is recommended that a changing table be adjustable from 12 inches to 40 inches above the floor, depending on the transfer needs of the user and the best ergonomic position for the caregiver.
 | Infinity Adjustable Mobile Changing Table View Product |
The Infinity Mobile Changing Table is a state-of-the-art therapy and mobile changer built to meet the many requirements and needs of healthcare facilities. You'll benefit from the thick, supportive padding on the changing surface and adjustable padded side panels that securely guide them into a central position while ensuring their safety during changes and movement. This table's tough, water-resistant vinyl covering is easy to sanitize, and both safety panels lower conveniently to create easier patient transitions onto and off the table.
This innovative changing table is operated using a simple foot pedal for hands-free height adjustments, offering caregivers the flexibility to find an optimal working height and providing a smooth transition for patients from their wheelchairs or beds to the tables.
Furthermore, the integrated safety strap ensures that patients are securely fastened to the table during motion. With all four casters swiveling 360 degrees and featuring foot-activated locking mechanisms, this mobile changing table offers flexible maneuverability and secure stationary use, allowing it to navigate tight corners and narrow hallways while remaining stable and secure when stationary.
 | Pressalit Care 1000 Changing Table View Product |
Coming in on our list at number four is the Care 1000 Adult Changing Table by Pressalit Care, which is ideal for adult day cares, hospitals, clinics, parks, pools, and home care.
This wall-mounted perforated stretcher folds out of the way when it’s not being used and sits atop a collection tray with an attached flexible hose to drain fluids and keep the area as sanitary and comfortable as possible. Its handheld remote controls the height adjustment from 12 inches to 39 ½ inches with a whisper-quiet motor and this table can accommodate a weight capacity of 330 pounds. The durable plasticized mesh material is soft, pliant, and washable.
A budget-friendly option, this table reduces the risk of a fall with its safety side rail that folds up or down and locks under the table. This equipment is wheelchair-accessible and ADA-compliant. Its powder-coated stainless steel frame is sturdy but easily folds and unfolds with the help of its two built-in pneumatic cylinders.
With its convenient electric operation, efficient use of space, and safety and comfort features, this model claimed the top spot for the overall best adult changing table. It is appropriate for use in almost any situation and comfortably serves users and caregivers.
Please note: While installation documents are included with this table, it is highly recommended to find a general contractor to mount this table to the wall. It requires wall reinforcement in most cases to ensure the 330-pound weight capacity.
 | Smirthwaite Wall-Mounted Shower-Safe Changing Table View Product |
At number three on our list is the economical shower-safe Wall-Mounted Shower-Safe Changing Table by Smirthwaite USA that attaches to the wall at a height that’s comfortable for the caregiver.
Folding flat and out of the way when not in use, this shower stretcher supports good hygiene for anyone with limited mobility, keeping the user safely in place for horizontal bathing. The bench creates safe and smooth transitions and is covered with perforated vinyl so water flows through and doesn’t pool. The stainless steel powder-coated frame is moisture and rust-resistant.
For easy cleanup, this changing table can be installed over a tub for use as a bathing and changing aid. It’s 25.6 inches across, and comes in lengths ranging from 55.1 to 74.8 inches, each model with a weight capacity of 440 pounds.
This multi-use space-saving changing table safely accommodates patient needs for a secure horizontal surface as well as caregiver needs for a platform set to a height that alleviates back strain and minimizes the potential for accompanying work-related injuries.
 | Portable Adult Changing Table with Electrical Height Adjustment and 441 lbs. Weight Capacity - MCT 3 by Pressalit View Product |
Finding an adult changing table that is supportive, easy to clean, and simple to operate can be relatively tricky. Though those features seem like the bare minimum, quality, and longevity are often compromised. With the MCT 3 by Pressalit, these features, along with many others, are made from premium quality materials and mechanics, ensuring years of dependable use.
With a heavy-duty steel frame, large, fully swiveling casters, and a lifting range of up to 37 inches, this changing table by Pressalit Care can hold up to 440 pounds, ensuring reliable and resilient care. The MCT 3 delivers quiet and smooth operation with every single component. The tabletop has hooks for the mattress so that it remains in place no matter what your patient needs. And because this changing table is shower-safe, the mattress, along with every mechanical and electrical component is sealed for complete waterproof protection.
The MCT 3 proves to be one of the easiest tables to operate and with an integrated, heavy-duty side rail, it proves to be the safest as well. As a caregiver, these features provide security and extra support during showers, transfers, and changes. When not in use, this table can be rolled to a storage space easily, maximizing floor space in both public and private settings. The MCT 3 delivers security and quality down to the last detail, outshining all other tables on the market.
 | Armedica Hi-Lo Changing Table with Side Rails View Product |
The Hi-Lo Changing Table with Side Rails by Armedica Manufacturing is at the top of our list, and it features motorized height adjustment with no horizontal travel, providing an easy patient transfer and less caregiver strain.
Ideal for facility or home use, this special needs table can accommodate children or adults. Using the foot pedal control, it can be lowered to 18 inches from the floor, and after a patient is transferred to the table, it can be raised up to 37 inches. This sturdy table’s frame is made of 11 gauge welded steel tubing that’s strong enough to safely accommodate users weighing up to 400 pounds. It comes in your choice of 60 or 72 inches long.
Designed with caregivers in mind, its height range significantly reduces the risk of back pain and strain injuries caused by working in a bent-over position. This single-section table features 1 ½ inches of firm foam and comes in a choice of 11 colors of heavy-duty vinyl that is coated in Permablok 3 to decrease bacteria, germs, fungus, abrasions, and stains. Its safety rails pivot down so they don’t inhibit transfers. This table’s swivel lock casters make it highly maneuverable.
This special needs table is extremely versatile, able to serve children and adults comfortably and safely while protecting caregiver health with its height range and powered adjustability.
One of the best ways to protect caregivers and users as they go through daily hygienic activities of bathing and changing clothes or undergarments is to use a comfortable and safe platform to perform these tasks.
Choosing the right adult changing table for individuals with special needs can make a significant difference in their comfort, independence, and overall well-being. The adult changing tables reviewed in this article all offer unique features and benefits that cater to different needs and preferences.
Read our similar article How to Choose the Best Adult Changing Table for guidance on choosing the best adult changing table for your situation. You can also check out Special Needs articles on Caregiver University for more helpful information!
Co-Founder of Rehabmart and an Occupational Therapist since 1993. Mike has spent his professional career working in multiple areas of Occupational Therapy, including pediatrics, geriatrics, hand therapy, ergonomics and inpatient / outpatient rehabilitation. Mike enjoys writing articles that help people solve complex therapeutic problems and make better product choices.
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