The bathroom can be a dangerous place for anyone, but the risks are that much greater for seniors. Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults. But what can you do to prevent this?
Walk-in tubs are the perfect solution, allowing for a safer experience getting in and out, and bathing, as the design allows a person to wash in a sitting position. These types of bathtubs are also beneficial for anyone struggling with mobility challenges or those facing other difficulties when using a standard tub.
Here’s what you need to know about walk-in bathtubs.
What Is a Walk-In Bathtub?
Walk-in bathtubs differ from traditional tubs in a few ways. They’re much deeper, featuring high sides with a door that seals so a person doesn’t have to climb in and out. Many have safety features like slip-resistant flooring and grab bars. They’re also often designed with features that allow a person to bathe sitting upright, and enjoy hydrotherapy and massaging jets. Some tubs include chromatherapy, which allows you to light your bath with color.
Different tubs have different combinations of features, so shop around online to compare different styles, brands, and prices.
Benefits of a Walk-In Bathtub
The most significant benefit of a walk-in bathtub is increased safety. Bathers can keep both feet on the floor, get into the tub without losing their balance, and stay comfortable and stable while sitting down to bathe.
But besides providing a safer bathing experience for those who may generally need more assistance, walk-in tubs have these added benefits:
- Pain relief – Can be soothing, helping relieve pain associated with diabetes, arthritis, rheumatism, fibromyalgia, or general muscle and joint pain.
- Circulation – Can increase mobility and lessen pain by improving the body’s circulation.
- Stress relief and relaxation – Features that provide chromatherapy, hydrotherapy, massage, and air bath, all help to improve sleep quality and reduce stress.
The Cost of a Walk-In Bathtub
Walk-in tubs definitely come at a cost, with tubs ranging from $1,500 up to $20,000 USD. According to Consumer Affairs, the average cost of a walk-in soaking tub is between $2,000 and $5,000 USD. Prices vary depending on the brand, features included, and tub size. Overall, safety and soaking tubs will be at the lower end of the price range while whirlpool and air jet tubs are on the higher end.
Installing a walk-in bathtub requires a professional and prices generally don’t include this cost, which ranges from $700 to $3,000 USD with an average price tag of $1,500. Installation costs can run higher than this though, especially if any pre-installation electrical or plumbing work is required. Your house may also require a water heater upgrade if your current model is too small, since some walk-in tubs can hold up to 100 gallons.
To find out more information, check out brands and models online or at your local home improvement store and request a free quote. Consider getting multiple quotes, as well as contacting local contractors who are experienced in installing this type of tub so that you know exactly what a walk-on bathtub will cost you before you start ripping your old soaker out.