Walk-in tubs come with inbuilt safety features for elderly persons, disabled groups, and the ones suffering from restricted mobility. They contain an airtight entrance door and low step-in entry; these features help persons to step directly into the tub and not lift their legs to enter.
Walk-in tubs also have chair-level seats so the person does not have to go up and down from the top to the base of the tub. Only they have to walk in and sit down to take a bath.
Aspects to consider when purchasing walk-in tubs for seniors
Here are some important considerations when making your selection among the different walk-in tub models for seniors.
Draw your budget
The prices of walk-in tubs are in the range of $1,500 to $20,000, depending on the various features and installation charges. To get the most from your investment in walk-in tubs, you must make sure they have the requisite features.
Many manufacturers want you to make the right choice and you can work in tandem with them all the way.
Opt for an in-home assessment
Many walk-in tub dealers provide complimentary home visit services to help you evaluate your walk-in tub needs. They send their technicians to measure the available space, following which they design a tub that matches the dimensions and has the features you require.
Tailor your order
After the specialists take the measurements, you can go ahead and order a tub that will be accommodated in the available space, with all the comfort features you need. Most people go with heated seats, neck rests, and massaging systems, among others.
Select your walk-in tub warranty deal
Walk-in tubs come with warranties – either on the whole package or separate parts. Always try to understand the warranty terms beforehand. As such, you must inquire about the warranty cover and the validity details.
Go with professional services
While some walk-in tub producers send their technicians to mount the tubs, others have reliable local plumbers to complete the job. Whatever the case may be, you must check whether the plumber is experienced in tub and pipe fittings.
Varied Features of Walk-In Tubs
Let us now study the varied features of walk-in tubs.
Standard features
Walk-in bathtubs are comparable to conventional bathtubs in various ways. Both take up the same amount of space and are installable in one day. Even so, walk-in tubs have some extra features that distinguish them from the traditional ones.
Low step-up
As compared to standard bathtubs, walk-in tubs have a lower step-up and this makes them useful for people who suffer from restricted mobility.
More commonly, the step-up height is between the range of 4 to 7 inches, though some varieties have step-ups as low as 2.5 inches for easy access.
Hand-held showerheads
Some people have trouble standing while bathing and they are advised to use handheld showerheads. Normally, the showerhead is found towards the front side of the tub with the faucets. Though, in some models, the showerheads are elevated and contain adjustable rods.
Added depth
The water level in walk-in bathtubs is around 2.5 feet in depth. Conversely, traditional bathtubs have water levels that are only a foot deep. The additional depth in walk-in tubs imparts a relaxing soak to the users.
Walk-in tub sizes
In general, walk-in tubs occupy the same amount of space as regular bathtubs. Many models are between 37 to 47 inches in length. The length and width of different models vary, but usually walk-in tubs measure 28 to 32 inches in width and maximum 60 inches in length.
While some manufacturers provide optional trim kits to make sure the tub fits well in the available bathroom space, others offer compact walk-in tubs that are suited for small-sized bathrooms. Most walk-in tubs are designed for fitting in the space occupied by standard tubs.
Sealed doors
Walk-in tubs come with sealed doors, which are leak-proof and prevent water from trickling out of the tub. After the tub completely drains, you can exit the tub by opening the door.
Safety features
Walk-in tubs are designed with an array of safety measures. Commonly, people buy walk-in tubs for preventing falls while they enter or exit the regular bathtubs. Non-slip floors, high walls, grab bars, and comfortable seats make these tubs safer to use for people with mobility issues.
In-Built shower seat
Walk-in tubs are available with shower seats that are approximately 17 inches in height. They are safe for bathing and prevent falls because of textured planes. Getting up from such seats is easier as compared to regular tub floors.
Textured floor
Most walk-in tubs have textured floor surfaces that prevent falls. They are suitable for persons having mobility issues.
Grab bars
Nearly all tubs have minimum two grab bars or handrails. Always opt for these tools and fit them where they suit your convenience. In some models of walk-in tubs, grab bars are optional. Nonetheless, you must purchase them for disabled persons, for they would get extra support with them.
Anti-scald valve
Walk-in tubs are fitted with anti-scald valves; they adjust to changes in pressure of hot and cold water lines, so you do not get injured due to immediate changes in water temperature. If the water temperature rises or falls suddenly, you can injure yourself; and to prevent such accidents, the standard safety valves are mandatory in walk-in bathtubs.
In-line heater
In-line heaters in walk-in tubs maintain the water at a constant temperature when the jets are operational. They warm the water so you are not discomforted and can use the tub for longer durations to benefit from the therapeutic effects.
Contoured seats
Contoured surfaces are not only comfortable, but also they help to prevent you from sliding or slipping off from your walk-in tub seat.
Customized features
Among the various features that are available for walk-in tubs, you may get confused while choosing the ones that are best suited to your requirements. So, here we have listed some important custom-made features to consider during your walk-in tub purchases.
Tub extender
Walk-in tub manufacturers produce extensions for tubs that do not fit properly in the available space in your bathroom. Such extensions are helpful to cover gaps between the walls and tub and useful for storing bathing materials, shampoos, and soaps. With extenders, you may have to move the shower curtain so they cover the entire tub and water does not spill out and cause pools on the floor, which makes the floor slippery.
Neck rest
If you need greater support than what the basic seat provides, then you can install a neck rest on your seat. Talk to your dealer to know about the varied types of neck rests.
Wall surround
You can opt for an acrylic wall surround system to be added to your tub for a taller shower. These resources come with shelf space and offer protection to walls from water damage.
Tile flange for acrylic-based varieties
A tile flange is an elevated area around the sides of the tub deck between the tile and wall to fix a seal for preventing leakages.
Massaging system
Walk-in tubs with massaging systems (including air and water jets) are also available – for a plush bathing experience that is.
