Features and Benefits of a Walk-in Bathtub

September 26, 2014

It’s not surprising that most slip and fall accidents occur in bathrooms. Slick and slippery surfaces combined with steamy walls and wet feet make it easy for anyone to take a plunge, especially a child or a senior. According to CDC, falls are a leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries in adults 65 and older. Among other things, CDC suggests making homes safer and easier to navigate for seniors in order to prevent falls. And a bathroom is a good place to start. If you are looking for Maryland bathroom remodeling solutions for seniors, consider a walk-in bathtub.

What is a Walk-in Bathtub?

Just like the name suggests, a walk-in bathtub is a tub with a door on one side. The door opens and allows for the person to get in without having to climb over high borders of a traditional tub. The door seals tight and doesn’t let any water through. Most models have seats and grab bars for your comfort and safety. Walk-in tubs are taller and deeper than regular tubs, which helps avoid unnecessary bending and muscle strain. You can literally open the door, walk in and sit down as if it was a car seat. This innovative design addresses major bathroom safety concerns for seniors.

Common Features

Walk-in bathtubs have come a long way since they were first conceptualized. Initially bulky and unattractive, the new models can easily fit into any bathroom design. Depending on the model, walk-in bathtubs may have the following safety and comfort features:

grab bars
non-slip flooring
easy-to-reach plumbing fixtures
air and water jets with a massage function
hand-held shower handles

Width and depth of walk-in bathtubs also vary. You can find a model that fits your specific bathing preferences—whether you like to be submerged up to your neck or just above the waist. If you don’t like soaking, a built-in shower handle makes it possible to use this bathtub as a sit-down shower.

Why Walk-in Bathtub?

A walk-in bathtub is an investment in your loved one’s safety. But is the cost of purchase and installation worth it? It’s ultimately for you to decide, but be sure to consider these benefits:

Safety

A walk-in bathtub is a much safer alternative to a traditional tub or shower. It has several safety features that help minimize the risk of slipping and falling while getting in and out of the tub.

Comfort

Besides being risky, climbing over the steep edge of a tub might also be painful. For someone suffering from arthritis or joint pain, bathing can turn into a torture. A walk-in bathtub removes the extra steps necessary to get inside the tub, making it less stressful on the joints and muscles.

Ease of use

While it might be cutting edge, a walk-in bathtub is not a high-tech device. It’s easy to use and no special knowledge is needed. Just get in, seal the door shut and fill it up. All of the controls are within arm’s reach from the seat, so you don’t even have to change your position once you settle in.

Independence

Independence is an important factor. Your elderly loved one has dignity and privacy needs, especially when it comes to bathing. With a walk-in bathtub, they might not need any assistance maintaining their hygiene. They will appreciate the freedom and sense of independence they get when bathing by themselves.

While they were designed with seniors in mind, all these features and benefits make a walk-in bathtub perfect for anyone with limited mobility or unstable balance, such as handicapped or injured people, pregnant women and even kids.

Need help choosing or installing your walk-in bathtub? Give Bath Doctor a call at 410-444-4133 or contact us online.

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