The Ultimate Guide to Walk-In Bath Tubs: Safety, Comfort, and Pain Relief

Falling is the leading cause of injury in adults 65 years of age or older, but many falls are preventable. As we age, it is critical that we prioritize safety and comfort in our everyday routines. This is especially true when it comes to the bathroom, where slippery surfaces can present a fall risk. Walk-in tubs provide a practical solution for seniors with mobility issues who want to enjoy bathing and experience pain relief without safety concerns. This guide will give you the benefits, safety features, pain relief abilities, and popular brands of walk-in tubs so that you can make an informed decision to improve the quality of life of yourself or a loved one.

Benefits of Walk-In Bathtubs

Walk-in tubs and showers are a safe way for people with mobility issues to safely and independently enjoy bathing. These tubs have a door that allows you to easily access the bath or shower without stepping over the ledge and risking a fall. They come in a variety of types and with various features to suit individual needs and preferences.

Safety Features of Walk-In Tubs

Low Step-In

The ultimate benefit of a step-in tub is that you will not have to strain to get into the bath. Walk-in bathtubs provide a low step so you can easily access the tub without worrying about maneuvering over the edge.

Extra Wide Door

The wide tub door helps to enter and exit the bath with minimal effort. The door is built with mobility in mind, offering an easy way for you to navigate in and out of the bath safely.

Anti-Slip Floor

Walk-in tubs for seniors also have an anti-slip floor and seat so you can enjoy your bath without worrying about slipping and falling. The surfaces have more traction to minimize slipperiness and give you peace of mind as you enter and exit the tub.

Large Seat

The large anti-slip seat is built with your comfort and safety in mind. It is wide to ensure you are comfortable and can enjoy your bathing experience without feeling cramped.

Handrails

Built-in handrails are an additional safety precaution that you may use when settling in or out of the tub. They are also extremely useful when sitting or standing from the seat. They are placed on the inner walls of the tub so that you can easily maneuver with confidence.

Comfort and Pain Relief Features

Heated Backrest

A heated backrest feature will warm your neck and back as the tub fills, releasing any tension as you wait to enjoy your bath.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy features such as water and air jets provide pain relief and relaxation. Jets provide a soothing massage that alleviates joint pain, arthritis pain, and muscle tension. Warm water can also improve blood flow for those with poor circulation or diabetes. Hydrotherapy has been known to help with chronic pain from conditions such as fibromyalgia and sciatica.

Fast Fill/Quick Drain

Fast fill and quick drain technology features have your comfort in mind. This feature aims to fill your tub as fast as possible and drain it with ease, with minimal waiting time.

Types of Walk-In Tubs

Walk-In Tub and Shower Combo

Walk-in bath and shower combos are a popular option for those who enjoy bathing as well as showering. With safety features like non-slip flooring and grab bars, shower/tub combos provide an all-inclusive washing experience.

Wheelchair Accessible Walk-in Bath

Wheelchair-accessible tubs have an out-swinging bathtub door that allows you to easily side transfer from chair to tub. It can be used in combination with a bathtub lift for ultimate ease.

Bariatric Walk-in Tubs

Bariatric tubs have wide doors and seats for ultimate space and comfort. They come in many sizes and like all walk-in tub options, they have various features suited to individual needs and preferences.

Popular Walk-in Bathtub Brands

While there are many walk-in tub brands on the market, these are some of the most popular brands among seniors and others with mobility issues:

• Safe Step Walk-In Tub
• MediTub
• Ella’s Bubbles
• Venzi
• Empava

FAQs

Does Medicare cover walk-in baths?

How much do walk-in baths cost?

Are walk-in tubs good for seniors?

Is a walk-in tub or walk-in shower better?

Sources

CDC- Older Adult Falls Data