Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions, a manufacturer of assisted baths, has won the Best in Show New Product Award for its new Gemini MX accessible bath launched at the 2024 OT Show.

Unveiled on day one of the event, the “pioneering” Gemini MX received high levels of interest from delegates, according to Abacus. Occupational therapists (OTs) commended the design of the new bath and how its innovative features raised the bar in accessible bathing for disabled users.

The Gemini MX offers versatility, support, and comfort for semi-ambulant bathers. Its specialist mattress and unique dual-lift technology combine to achieve a solution that was deemed ‘a game changer’ both in terms of bather experience and moving and handling. This resulted in the product winning Best in Show, as voted for by independent judges working in conjunction with the event organiser, CloserStill.

To enhance its integrated changing, drying, and bathing platform, the Gemini MX is supplied with a new specialist mattress as standard. Its winged features provide an extra padded transfer area, which is good for dynamic bathers.

With a textured surface for additional grip, it is supplied in two halves for easy handling, cleaning, and storage. Over and above the mattress, the MX also provides an extra-large 2m-long bathing space, soft-close platform, built-in BioCote antimicrobial protection, multi-position backrests and footrests, a safety rail, obstruction sensors, and a range of therapeutic/sensory options.

Offering insight to OTs on the stand, Peter Eckhardt, CEO of Gainsborough Healthcare Group, said: “Our Abacus brand has always been synonymous with innovation. Innovation that is 100 percent centric to the needs of bathers with disabilities.

“The Gemini MX once again reiterates this duty of care and it was a pleasure to receive all the positive feedback from the healthcare professionals we met. We discussed how this bath now opens up accessible bathing to an even wider demographic and why the MX is so unique.

“To win another OT Show award was the icing on the cake as they say. We are now busy fulfilling the high number of enquiries we received and look forward to seeing the difference it makes in the community and beyond.”

Last year, Abacus’ on-stand CPD seminars, in association with The OT Service, won ‘Best on-stand CPD education’ award at the OT Show.