Walk in Bathtub - What to Look For

Walk in Bathtub - What to Look For

Are you getting to the point where you're worried about slipping in the bathtub?

Making sure that someone is home before you climb into or out of the tub? Have you ever worried about what you would do if you slipped and fell?

If you have, you might want to consider a walk in bathtub. The process of transitioning to such a tub is not nearly as difficult or as costly as you might think. We'll discuss just a few of the benefits of a walk in tub, but remember, this list is by no means inclusive.

Benefits of a Walk in Bathtub

Walk in tubs can be a beautiful addition to any bathroom and take up less space. Because the base of a walk in tub takes up about half the floor space as a traditional bathtub, your bathroom will seem larger with a walk in tub.

Walk in tubs come in a variety of models and colors. Perfect for bathroom makeovers for any senior or person with a disability, a walk in bathtub can add to the value of your home as well as offer you valuable tax incentives and write offs.

Most importantly, a walk in tub offers increased safety for you or your loved ones. No more climbing over slippery tub enclosures or reaching for something stable to grab onto when getting out of a bathtub.

According to studies, most senior falls in a home environment occur in the bathroom and the kitchen. Many people install grab bars around bathtub or shower enclosures, but fail to attach those grab bars to studs in the wall. You may be horrified to envision Mom or Dad losing their balance in the bathtub and reaching for an improperly installed grab bar or bath towel rack. Such scenes result in traumatic brain injuries and fractures.

Last but not least, a walk in tub can offer a sense of greater independence and well-being for seniors or those who are disabled, making it easier to not only take care of your personal hygiene in grooming needs, but also enjoy a good soak as you used to.

Walk in Bathtub Features

Walk in tubs today offer luxurious and comfortable settings for bathing or just enjoying a good soak. Some walk in bathtub models offer a fully functional spa and or Jacuzzi type or whirlpool features for a tranquil and enjoyable bathing experience.

Walk in tub features sides that are around waist height, offering easier entry and exit of the tub area as well as something solid to hang on to when transferring. Most walk in tub enclosures are pre-formed with smooth and contoured seating benches, while others offer adjustable height benches for greater comfort.

Depending on the model you choose, handicapped models offer easy entry for individuals transferring from a wheelchair into the bathtub and vice versa. Such models are also easily accessible by patient lift devices.

Walk in tub models come with right or left hinged doors depending on your bathrooms design as well as doors that open outward. Handles fitted into the doors make opening and closing simple, even for those diagnosed with medical conditions such as arthritis.

Mechanisms and levers in the bathing unit are designed to work with minimal hand pressure and strength, greatly enhancing the ability of users to adjust water level, water temperature, and features like whirlpools or Jacuzzi jets.

Walk in tubs fill and drain quickly, and provide leak-proof doors that prevent overflowing and spillage, which typically create fall risk hazards in traditional bathroom settings.

Choosing a Walk in Bathtub

Walk in tubs should be chosen depending on the current and future needs of the person who will be using it most.

Some models are specifically designed for tall people or those who weigh over 300 pounds. Location of doors, levers and faucets can be selected based on your current bathroom layout and needs. All in all, walk in tubs can make life a lot easier for you or your loved one.


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