Walk In Tubs for Seniors: Prioritizing Safety in the Bathroom

Learning About Walk In Tubs for Seniors

Are you considering purchasing a walk in tub for your home? Are you or a loved one struggling with mobility or other health issues? More people are installing walk in tubs to prevent accidents and to provide better autonomy.

Walk in tubs for seniors are great for safety and have therapeutic additions to a senior’s house.

There are many types of walk in tubs out there that provide a variety of different features. It’s important to get informed about walk in tubs to ensure that you make the best selection for your needs.

How Do Walk In Tubs Work?

Walk in tubs are easier to get in and out of compared to standard tubs. The watertight tub provides a door and a seat for you to comfortably sit on, as opposed to sitting on the floor of a traditional bathtub. A walk in tub also has nonslip features and handrails to assure better stability.

Seniors with limited mobility feel safer with the easy entry of a walk in tub. A walk in tub can offer longer autonomy for seniors. Caregivers also find it more comfortable when bathing someone in a walk in bathtub.

Types of Walk In Tubs

There are a variety of types of walk in tubs on the market today. Make sure to assess your needs in order to purchase the best one for your home. Here are some of the different types:

Soaker. This is the standard walk in tub with no special features. This tends to be the most affordable walk in tub.
Wheelchair or bariatric accessible. You may need a wider walk in tub to accommodate a wheelchair or some extra weight.
Jet therapy and hydrotherapy. Some walk in tubs come with features like jacuzzi jets for relieving muscle and joint pain.
Aromatherapy and chromatherapy. Some walk in tubs offer some spa features like aromatherapy and colored lights to promote intense relaxation.
Combination. Many walk in tubs offer a selection of features in a single tub. You may need a wider bariatric tub and want hydrotherapy as well.

Tips for Choosing a Walk In Tub

When choosing your walk in tub, make sure it has these necessary features:

Anti-slip floor. A textured floor is a must and most offer some type of anti-slip flooring.
Handrails. Handrails are also a vital part of any walk in tub. Look where the handrails are placed and if they are comfortable for you.
Quick drainage. A walk in tub requires that you stay put inside the tub until it fills and also while it drains. Quick drainage will let you get out of the tub faster.
Heating. Some tubs come with a heated seat or other types of heating systems to keep the water warm.
Easy cleaning. Read the cleaning instructions and make sure that it is an easy process.
Step height. Check the height of the step and choose one that is appropriate for you.
Installation, warranties and guarantees. Every brand offers different installation processes and warranties. Make sure to be well informed before purchasing.
Door. Some doors open towards the inside and others towards the outside. This may be important to consider if you are overweight. Remember that the outside opening doors may be at greater risk of flooding.

Pros and Cons of Walk In Tubs

Pros

Comfortable seating position.
Safer than traditional tubs.
Easy entry and exit.
It offers good water depth.
Relieves muscle and joint pain.

Cons

Takes a while to fill and drain.
More expensive than traditional tubs.

Best Walk In Tub Brands

Walk in tub prices vary depending on the brands and features offered. The more affordable ones will cost a few thousand dollars and the more luxurious models can go up to $15,000. Some brands offer payment options.

American Standard

American Standard is an American staple in the bathtub industry. They have been making bathtubs for well over 140 years. You can get a home evaluation of your needs and a quick, painless installation.

American Standard walk in tubs are commended by the Arthritis Foundation and make our list because of its quality products and reliable customer service.

Key features include:

Lifetime warranty.
Self-cleaning sanitary ozone system.
Ultra-low entryway.

Kohler

Kohler is another trusted brand that designs quality walk in tubs. Kohler walk in tubs offer all the features like heated surfaces, hydrotherapy and air jets. It also offers a variety of design options to choose from. Choose your bath color, faucet finish and stylish bath walls to coordinate with your bathroom décor.