With more and more people expressing an interest in aging in place, universal design –the concept of making a house more accessible to everyone who lives in it — has been gaining prominence. One method to make your home more accessible, comfortable, and safe is with having a walk-in bath.
What are the benefits of Walk-in Tubs?
The advantages of bathtubs that are walk-in are obvious. Apart from the safety concerns, there are a variety of advantages that prove the reason why a walk-in tub is an ideal choice for every home. They’re particularly useful for those who suffer from chronic ailments or just suffering from the pains and aches of getting older.
Let’s examine the advantages of walk-in bathtubs.
1. The design was created with security in mind
Three million older adults are treated at emergency rooms for falls every year, and the majority of those happen in bathrooms. Handrails with a textured seat, flooring, anti-scald, quick-fill and quick-drain options and detachable sprayspouts are just a few of the safety features which come included in all walk-in bathtubs. The low threshold to enter and grab bars that permit a person to lower themselves safely into the tub are additional ways to ensure safety.
A walk-in bathtub offers an answer to the many issues associated with aging in place. While a lot of people aren’t familiar with walk in bathtubs, the name is actually fairly precise. A walk-in tub is a bathtub equipped with a door that lets users enter the bathtub through the doorway without having to raise their legs on a long rail on a traditional bathbathtub. You can then shut the doors, then fill the bathtub and enjoy the bathing experience they are accustomed to without needing to lower themselves towards the waters. In a walk in bathtub the bather is in a sitting position as if they were sitting in their favourite chair!
2. Increases the value of your home
Accessible features can add value to your home, especially if that home is part of a retirement community. Walk-in bathtubs are a key component in a home with accessibility that allows several generations to reside together and can appeal for buyers from all generations.
3. Plenty of space to those who may need an extra bit
Walk-in bathtubs come in several designs designed to fit those who have specific requirements. For instance, a bariatric tub are designed to accommodate the weight of a bigger person, and certain bathtubs are able to accommodate wheelchair access. For those who have difficulty sitting upright can avail the advantages of bathtubs that allow people to recline in the water.
4. Hydrotherapy benefits
There’s no doubt that a heated tub feels luxurious. However, the benefits of hydrotherapy are apparent. The right jets are positioned to relieve the aches and discomforts caused by chronic conditions, relax muscles, improve blood flow, and boost overall wellbeing through relaxation and mental health benefits.
5. Often fits into the space in your bathtub
If you’re looking for something that has numerous benefits over standard bathtubs one might believe it takes up a lot more space. But the truth is that many walk-in bathtubs are actually quite compact and fit in the space that is occupied by a typical bathbathtub. In reality, some may be smaller and take up smaller space. This allows you to build shelves or other items around the bathtub.
Walk-in bathtubs are constructed to fit in the footprint of a standard bathbathtub So, they are usually fitted without major floor plan adjustments, thus avoiding costly budget overruns. A professional walk-in bathtub contractor will help you decide on the ideal size of a walk-in tub for your home, and any plumbing or eletrical adjustments that you might require.
6. You don’t have to forfeit your shower.
A few walk-in bathtubs are offered in a bathtub/shower combo. This is a great option for households with different generations living under the same roof. Since a walk-in bathtub will be placed where the existing bathtub is so the shower section will remain in place. You just need to add curtains for showers for those who prefer to use the shower, and everyone will be happy.
Oftentimes, a walk-in bathtub could also be arranged to allow a standing shower allowing bathers of all age groups or abilities to take pleasure in their own preference.
7. Improved hygiene for those who have mobility issues
For those with mobility issues, they may have difficulty with daily things that we think of as normal like the shower or taking baths. People who are unable to stand while showering or who struggle to get into and out of the regular bathtub can opt for the walk-in bathtub for the needs of their daily hygiene.
8. Potentially lower hospital costs
The safety features can assist prevent falls and other accidents and the benefits of hydrotherapy and better hygiene can keep a person healthier. These advantages can result in better health, less doctor visits, and potentially less medical expenses.
A professional walk-in tub installation
If you’ve now viewed the advantages of walk-in bathtubs It’s important to realize that they need to be put in place by a licensed contractor. This is a major undertaking that requires someone licensed and trained to handle the construction, plumbing and electrical work involved.
