A walk-in bathtub is functionally the same as a regular tub, except there is a large watertight door in the side that swings open. This allows you to simply walk in (hence the name) instead of lowering yourself into the water.
There is a range of benefits that a walk-in bathtub provides. Understanding the advantages when compared to traditional tubs can help you decide if you want to install a walk-in tub in your bathroom.
Why You Should Choose a Walk-In Bathtub
Walk-in tubs are not just for the elderly: they can benefit anyone who uses them in a variety of ways.
Spa Treatment
One of the key benefits of a walk-in tub is that it provides an opportunity to experience a spa treatment like hydrotherapy. Since walk-in tubs are deeper than their traditional counterparts, they provide a deeper and more comfortable experience for you to soak in. This is compounded by the fact that walk-in tubs can have custom seats installed as well, which are formed to fit your back.
Safety
Of course, the largest benefit of a walk-in tub is the increased safety that they provide. Since you are no longer clambering over slick porcelain, you won’t have to worry about slipping and falling. This is a concern for all ages, not just the elderly: a fall in a bathtub can lead to a broken limb or serious head injury.
Walk-in tubs can also have several grab bars installed, which can make it easier to get in and out of the tub (or in and out of your chair if you have mobility issues).
Dual Shower
Another thing to note about walk-in tubs is that they are still able to be configured as showers as well. This means that you can still switch between the two as needed (especially as showers tend to be quicker, as there is no tub to fill up). The seat in a walk-in bathtub can also make it easier for you to sit down while showering, further reducing the risk of slipping and injuring yourself.
Aging in Place
Finally, the last thing to note does have to do with aging. While you may not have mobility issues right now, time only moves in one direction. If you fully plan to retire and continue to live in your home, a walk-in tub could be a good investment for the future.
Bathroom remodeling can be expensive and hard to do on a fixed income. Getting a new bathtub installed early, while you are still working full-time, can help ensure that you are able to stay in your home for as long as possible after you retire.
Walk-in Bathtubs Are for Everyone
Ultimately, walk-in bathtubs can improve your comfort and reduce the risk of injury. While both of these things do benefit elderly homeowners, they are universal benefits that you should seriously consider when remodeling your bathroom.
For more information about bathroom remodeling in general, and home improvement specifically, keep browsing through our Remodeling Blog!
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