Benefits of Walk in Bathtubs

Keeping your body clean and sanitary is essential to maintaining good health. However, as your body ages or you develop certain medical conditions, stepping into a bathtub may be difficult. You must be able to maintain your balance on one leg as you step over a high threshold to enter the tub. A traditional bathtub does not have safety rails, so it is easy to fall as you enter and exit the tub. For many seniors and those diagnosed with arthritis, diabetes and other medical conditions, the ability to bathe in a tub will become impossible unless they have help. In many instances, walk in bathtubs provide an alternative to hiring help or moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility because you cannot bathe safely. The cost and safety features of walk in tubs make them the ideal solution for prolonging independent living and bathing with dignity.

At first glance, a walk in bathroom fixture may seem costly. Nevertheless, given the high prices of nursing homes and assisted care facilities, purchasing a walk in hydrotherapy bathtub, walk in soaking tub or shower may be a cost-efficient decision that preserves your independence. Walk in tubs are available in many price ranges and sizes, so you can probably find one to satisfy your budget and needs. A walk in tub can also reduce the need to pay for assistance or coordinate with a friend or relative who can help you bathe. Undressing in front of others or relying on someone to help you with safe bathing can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Walk in bathtubs allow you to preserve your dignity and independence while you enjoy the ability to safely bathe and maintain good personal hygiene.

Which safety features in walk in bathtubs can help promote safe bathing? A wheelchair accessible bathtub or walk in tub has a door that makes it easy to enter the tub without raising your foot high off the floor. Additionally these tubs have a grab bar system, so seniors and others with limited movement can hold on while maintaining their balance to enter the tub. Holding a grab bar can also help bathers lower their bodies into the tub and raise their bodies out of it. Walk in tubs also have non-slip floors that improve traction and reduce falls. Additionally, a walk in tub usually includes a seat. Bathers who cannot fully recline in the tub and do not have the ability to stand will appreciate the comfort and convenience of sitting while cleaning their bodies. A hand held nozzle also makes it easy for those with limited mobility to direct the flow of water. Some tub models also offer anti-scalding devices that prevent water temperatures from becoming too high.

Senior bathtubs, designed for anyone in pain or with limited mobility, can improve a customer’s quality of life, confidence and mental outlook. The ability to bathe independently will encourage seniors and those who are mobility impaired to bathe more often and promote a healthier lifestyle.