QUESTION: Can this device be used in place of an elevated toilet seat? I have a patient with weak shoulders and very bad knees. Has pain and difficulty standing from a seated position. I am looking into lifting aids for him that will be easy to install and cost effective. Can you send me more information on this device, and whether or not it is designed to be directly placed over a toilet? Is it stable enough to be placed over a toilet? ANSWER: Yes, this device can be used over a toilet seat. The clearance required is 21 1/4". For more discussions, options and details about the product, or to order the product, please click here The lifting commode chair is for people who have lost sufficient upper or lower body strength to get up unassisted and those who have lost mobility caused by a disease. Convenient for caregivers who need help transferring patients or family members. This is a self-powered lifting commode chair that helps users gently seat and raise themselves. It provides safe, controlled support and lifts up to 80% of a user's weight. Versatile and sturdy, the lifting commode chair can be used standalone or over the toilet. For safety, it automatically locks into position when fully depressed. It helps keep people active and independent, relieves stress and strain on joints, and lifts only as needed, allowing users to maintain muscular strength. The lifting commode chair is designed with self-powered lifting mechanism release slowly as user stands. Easy to clean snap-on seat. Removable back rest allows for easy positioning over toilet. Seat release lever & auto-lock hook to lock the lifting commode chair when depressed. The bucket care slide out for easy cleaning. It includes splash guard and cover. Extendable legs with 5 height settings. Non-skid rubber tips for added safety. Steel frame is white power coated to protect against moisture. Some assembly required. Base Width: 25.75" Base Depth: 20.5" Seat Width: 16.5" Seat Depth: 16.5" Seat Height Max: 23" Seat Height Min: 17" Required Clearance: 21 1/4" (frame height) Lift Level: 10" @ 20 Degrees Weight (unit): 21 lbs. Weight Capacity: 80-300 lbs.