Getting older means having to cope with potential health problems, not least that of reduced mobility due to aching, painful joints. For those living alone, bathing can be a stressful experience for fear of falling while getting in and out of a conventional bath. This article offers advice on how walk-in baths offer a safe way for seniors and many disabled people to bathe in privacy.
Walk-in Bathtubs for the Elderly
Walk-in bathtubs have an access door that allows the user to walk into the bath rather than climb in over the side. There are numerous different designs from a host of different suppliers but they broadly fit into two types; taller compact baths that allow a person to sit down inside and a more traditional-looking long length bath, most often supplied with a power seat to gently lower the person into the bath or a swivel chair lift for those with limited mobility.
Which design to choose depends on a number of factors:
- Individual mobility needs.
- Size of existing bathroom space.
- Height and weight of the individual – large heavy people, for example, will need a wider bath with large entry door.
- Fill time – homes with low water pressure may not be suitable for deep compact baths that take a longer time to fill.
- Drain time – elderly people who feel the cold easily may not suit a deep bath where they have to wait for it to drain before they can get out.
- Quality – all walk-in baths should have a secure leak-proof door and be professionally fitted; look for product reviews and availability of long-term warranties.
Cost of Walk-in Baths
The wide range of designs available in the market means that there is an equally wide range of prices from under $750 to well over $4000 for top of the range baths with hydrotherapy and built-in chair lift solutions.
Leading suppliers of walk-in baths like Premier Bathrooms do not quote prices for walk-in baths online as they prefer to assess an individual’s complete mobility needs and then recommend an appropriate design. For that reason, it is advisable to get quotes from several reputable companies before making a final decision; simply contact them online to arrange an appointment or talk to an adviser first.
Walk-in Bathrooms
While many elderly people have only ever been used to a bath, walk-in bathrooms or wet rooms are becoming more and more popular and can be the perfect alternative for safe elderly bathing. With the entire bathroom designed to be one washing space, users can either stand or sit on a bath chair in an open space and just turn on the shower.
With the addition of suitable mobility aids like grab bars, shower stools, non-slip mats, shower sandals and mobile shower chairs, both the infirm and the disabled individual can enjoy bathing with far less fear of falling.
Home Safety for Seniors
Take the stress of worrying about home safety for seniors by considering a walk-in bath as a safe way for them to enjoy the simple pleasure of bathing independently. Get several quotes from reputable companies to ensure that the design chosen fits the needs of the individual perfectly.
Related Articles:
Also of interest may be:
- Handicapped Showers: Best Design for Safe Disabled Bathing
- Walk-in Shower Enclosures: Best Designs for Safe Elderly Showers
- Walk-in Shower Designs with Seats
Sources:
Premier Bathrooms.com (accessed May 13, 2010).
Helen Smeaton - Helen Smeaton runs a cycling and hiking business and is also a freelance writer and web designer. Read her profile for more information
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